Maximum Strength 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Creme with Aloe
Maximum Strength 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Creme with Aloe
Product Description
Product overview
A fast-acting, maximum-strength 1% hydrocortisone anti-itch creme enriched with soothing aloe vera. Relieves itch from eczema, psoriasis, insect bites, poison ivy, rashes, and minor skin irritations in as little as 5 minutes with long-lasting relief that endures for hours. Fragrance-free, dye-free, and the #1 doctor-recommended OTC anti-itch brand.
Fast-Acting Itch Relief
Starts relieving itch in as little as 5 minutes with maximum-strength 1% hydrocortisone, the strongest available without a prescription.
Texture & feel
SENSORYFast-Acting Itch Relief
Starts relieving itch in as little as 5 minutes with maximum-strength 1% hydrocortisone, the strongest available without a prescription.
Soothing Aloe Vera
Enriched with aloe barbadensis leaf juice, providing vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and amino acids to moisturize and calm irritated skin.
Long-Lasting Relief
Provides itch relief that lasts for hours, so you can go about your day without constant reapplication.
Multi-Condition Coverage
Effective for eczema, psoriasis, poison ivy/oak/sumac, insect bites, seborrheic dermatitis, and irritation from detergents, jewelry, and cosmetics.
Safety & compatibility
SAFETopical hydrocortisone 1% is generally considered low-risk when used on small areas for short periods. However, the manufacturer recommends consulting your healthcare professional before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Avoid applying to breast area while nursing.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains beeswax (esters that can feed malassezia), mineral oil, and petrolatum. If you have fungal acne, consider a fungal-acne-safe alternative or consult a dermatologist.
Free from added fragrances and dyes, reducing the risk of additional irritation on already-compromised skin.
Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days unless directed by a doctor. Prolonged topical steroid use can cause skin thinning. Stop use if condition worsens or symptoms recur.
Cortizone-10 products are not tested on animals.
Do not use on children under 2 years of age without consulting a doctor. For ages 2 and up, apply as directed.
Formula includes methylparaben and propylparaben as preservatives. If you prefer paraben-free options, consider the Cortizone-10 Sensitive Skin variant.
Sodium lauryl sulfate is present as an emulsifier. This is a rinse-off-level concentration in a leave-on product, which may be irritating for some very sensitive skin types.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHydrocortisone 1%Proven
A mild topical corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, redness, swelling, and itching by suppressing the immune response in the skin. It is the maximum strength available over the counter in the United States.
- Mechanism: Activates glucocorticoid receptors in skin cells to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines and histamine response
- Efficacy: Clinically proven to relieve itch from minor skin irritations, eczema, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis
- Onset: Relief begins within 5–10 minutes of application
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuiceProven
A natural botanical extract rich in vitamins A, C, E, minerals, enzymes, amino acids, and polysaccharides. Known for its skin-soothing, moisturizing, and wound-healing properties.
- Benefits: Provides cooling relief, helps moisturize and nourish irritated skin
- Research: Multiple studies support aloe vera's anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects on skin
- Synergy: Complements hydrocortisone by soothing skin while the active ingredient reduces inflammation
GlycerinProven
A powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin. One of the most studied and effective moisturizing ingredients available.
- Function: Draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to hydrate the stratum corneum
- Research: A 2016 study found glycerin more effective as a humectant than hyaluronic acid and AHAs
Petrolatum & Mineral OilProven
Classic occlusive agents that form a protective barrier on the skin surface, preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and locking in moisture.
- Petrolatum: Reduces TEWL by up to 98%, considered the gold standard of occlusives
- Mineral oil: Lightweight emollient that softens and smooths skin without clogging pores at cosmetic grades
16 ingredients
Active Ingredient: Hydrocortisone 1%
Inactive Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Aluminum Sulfate, Beeswax, Calcium Acetate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dextrin, Glycerin, Maltodextrin, Methylparaben, Mineral Oil, Petrolatum, Propylparaben, Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Water
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply only to affected areas, up to 3–4 times daily. Use as a targeted treatment — not an all-over cream. Can be used AM or PM as needed.
How to use
HOW TO USEClean the Affected Area
Gently wash the affected area with mild soap and warm water. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft cloth or towel.
Apply a Thin Layer
Squeeze a small amount of creme and apply a thin, even layer directly onto the itchy or irritated area. Do not rub vigorously — gentle application is best.
Allow to Absorb
Let the creme absorb into the skin for 1–2 minutes. Avoid covering with tight bandages or dressings unless directed by a doctor.
Repeat as Needed
Apply up to 3–4 times daily. Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days. If symptoms persist or worsen, discontinue use and consult a doctor.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You need fast relief from itching due to eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis
- You've been bitten by insects (mosquitoes, ants, etc.) and need quick relief
- You have a rash from poison ivy, oak, or sumac
- Your skin is irritated from jewelry, cosmetics, detergents, or soaps
- You want a fragrance-free, dye-free anti-itch treatment
- You prefer a creme with soothing aloe vera rather than a plain steroid cream
- You need a compact, travel-friendly anti-itch solution
Consider alternatives if:
- You have a fungal skin infection (ringworm, athlete's foot) — hydrocortisone can worsen fungal conditions
- You need long-term itch relief (more than 7 days) — consult a doctor
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) — this formula is not FA-safe
- You are very sensitive to parabens or SLS
- You need coverage for large body areas — this is a targeted spot treatment
- Your child is under 2 years old — consult a pediatrician first
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWorks effectively on normal skin. The aloe and emollient base soothe without leaving a heavy residue. Ideal for occasional itch from bites or rashes.
The petrolatum and mineral oil base provides excellent occlusion, locking in moisture on dry, itchy patches. Pair with a heavier moisturizer for full hydration.
Effective for itch relief but the petrolatum and mineral oil base may feel slightly heavy on oily areas. Best used as a targeted spot treatment only.
Fragrance-free and dye-free, but contains parabens and SLS which may irritate very reactive skin. Consider the Sensitive Skin variant if concerned.
Contains beeswax (comedogenic rating 2–4) and occlusives that may clog pores if applied to acne-prone areas. Use only on affected non-acne zones.
Results timeline
1–7 DAYS (WITH CONSISTENT USE)Immediate Itch Relief
Hydrocortisone begins blocking the inflammatory cascade, reducing the sensation of itching. Most users notice a significant decrease in the urge to scratch.
90% noticed reliefRedness & Swelling Reduction
Visible inflammation begins to calm. The aloe vera provides a cooling, soothing sensation and the emollient base locks in moisture to protect the irritated area.
80% noticed improvementSustained Comfort
Itch relief continues for hours after application. The occlusive barrier helps keep irritants out and moisture in while the skin begins to recover.
75% reported lasting reliefCondition Improvement
With regular application (3–4 times daily), minor rashes, insect bites, and contact dermatitis typically resolve. Eczema and psoriasis flares are managed. Discontinue use after 7 days or when symptoms clear.
85% reported resolution of minor irritationsRatings by platform
48K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Fast-acting itch relief — most users feel results within 5 minutes
- Maximum OTC strength at 1% hydrocortisone
- Soothing aloe vera adds extra skin comfort
- Fragrance-free and dye-free formula
- #1 doctor-recommended OTC anti-itch brand
- Versatile — works on insect bites, rashes, eczema, psoriasis, and more
- Compact and travel-friendly tube
- HSA/FSA eligible
- Cruelty-free — not tested on animals
Criticized
- Small tube size (1 oz) can run out quickly with frequent use
- Contains parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben) and SLS
- Not fungal acne safe due to beeswax and occlusive ingredients
- 7-day usage limit may not be enough for chronic conditions
- Petrolatum/mineral oil base can feel greasy on some skin types
- Not suitable for open wounds or infected skin without medical advice
- No safety seal on the tube
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSame 1% hydrocortisone active ingredient at a lower price point. Simpler formula without aloe vera. Basic but effective for straightforward itch relief on a budget.
Generic store-brand hydrocortisone 1% cream. Same active ingredient, very similar inactive base. Lacks the aloe vera formulation but delivers identical anti-itch potency at roughly half the price.
Features 1% hydrocortisone with colloidal oatmeal for additional soothing. Different moisturizing approach — oat-based rather than aloe-based. Great for those with dry, eczema-prone skin who want extra nourishment.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDECortizone-10 Soothing Aloe Creme
Aquaphor Itch Relief Ointment 1%
CeraVe 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check expiration date on packaging. Do not use expired products.
Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Squeeze tube with screw cap. No safety seal — do not use if carton has been tampered with or product appears used.
Yes — 1 oz (28g) tube is well under the 3.4 oz / 100ml TSA carry-on limit. Compact and perfect for first aid kits, camping gear, and travel bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQTopical hydrocortisone 1% is generally considered low-risk during pregnancy when applied to small areas for short periods. Very little is absorbed systemically through the skin. However, the manufacturer specifically advises consulting your healthcare professional before using during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If nursing, avoid applying to the breast area and wash hands after application. The NHS and MotherToBaby both indicate that short-term, small-area use of low-potency topical hydrocortisone is unlikely to pose a risk.
No, this product is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains beeswax (which has esters that can feed malassezia yeast), mineral oil, and petrolatum. While hydrocortisone itself can temporarily reduce inflammation associated with fungal acne, these inactive ingredients may worsen malassezia folliculitis over time. If you have fungal acne, consult a dermatologist for appropriate antifungal treatments instead.
It is generally best to avoid layering other active ingredients (retinol, vitamin C, AHA, BHA) directly on top of or under hydrocortisone on the same skin area, as these can increase irritation. Hydrocortisone is meant to calm inflammation, while acids and retinoids can cause irritation. If you use actives in your skincare routine, apply them to different areas of the face/body, or use them at different times (e.g., actives in the morning, hydrocortisone at night). When in doubt, consult your dermatologist.
This creme works well across most skin types. It is particularly well-suited for normal to dry skin due to its emollient base (petrolatum, mineral oil, beeswax, glycerin). The fragrance-free, dye-free formula makes it appropriate for sensitive skin, though those with very reactive skin may prefer the Cortizone-10 Sensitive Skin variant (paraben-free, hypoallergenic). Oily skin types can use it as a targeted spot treatment. It is not ideal for fungal-acne-prone skin.
Most users experience noticeable itch relief within 5–10 minutes of application. Visible reduction in redness and swelling typically occurs within 30 minutes to 1 hour. For minor skin irritations like insect bites or contact rashes, symptoms often resolve within 1–3 days of consistent use. For chronic conditions like eczema or psoriasis, you may see improvement within a few days, but do not use for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor.
This is a medicated treatment, not a daily skincare product. Apply it after cleansing and drying the affected area. If you also use moisturizer, apply the hydrocortisone creme first, wait about 10 minutes for it to absorb, then follow with your regular moisturizer on surrounding areas. Do not layer it under or over active serums (retinol, vitamin C, acids) on the same spot. Use it as needed up to 3–4 times daily.
The overall comedogenic rating is approximately 2 out of 5. Petrolatum and mineral oil are generally non-comedogenic at cosmetic grades, but beeswax has a comedogenic rating of 2–4 depending on the source. For most people using this as a targeted spot treatment on irritated areas, pore-clogging is unlikely. However, if you are highly acne-prone, avoid applying it to large areas of the face and stick to affected zones only.
The product has an approximate shelf life of 12 months after opening. Always check the expiration date printed on the tube and outer carton. The manufacturer advises not to use expired products. Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. There is no safety seal on the tube — do not use if the carton appears tampered with or the product looks used.
Verdict: Cortizone-10 Maximum Strength 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Creme with Aloe is a reliable, fast-acting, and well-established anti-itch treatment backed by decades of trust and the #1 doctor recommendation in its category. The combination of maximum-strength hydrocortisone with soothing aloe vera delivers effective itch relief within minutes for a wide range of skin irritations — from insect bites and poison ivy to eczema and psoriasis flares. The fragrance-free, dye-free formula is gentle enough for most skin types, and the compact tube is ideal for first aid kits and on-the-go use. The main drawbacks are the small 1 oz size, presence of parabens, and the fact that it is not suitable for fungal acne. For everyday itch emergencies, this is a medicine cabinet essential.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Hydrocortisone
|
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 0 |
Aluminum Sulfate
Astringent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Beeswax
Emulsion Stabilising, Masking, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Calcium Acetate
Masking
|
|