The appearance of wrinkles, especially at an early age, can be very frustrating for both women and men. After all, you still want to look beautiful! Today, maintaining youth is quite possible. To do this, you don’t have to go under the knife; there are much more gentle methods. Hydrocortisone ointment is gaining popularity as an anti-aging agent. But how effective is it?
- 2 The use of hydrocortisone ointment in cosmetology
- 3 Instructions for using anti-wrinkle ointment
- 4 Contraindications
- 5 Side effects
5.1 Precautions
Compound
Information about the composition of Hydrocortisone ointment, methods of use, age restrictions is contained in the annotation - a paper insert in the package. The product is intended for the treatment of children over 2 years of age and adults; it is available without a doctor's prescription. The color of the drug is light yellow or white with a yellowish tint. The structure is homogeneous.
Hydrocortisone ointment for external use, produced in Russia by pharmaceutical companies, contains 10.0 or 5.0 mg. hydrocortisone acetate (per 1 g of medicine). Other ingredients in the drug include ointment base, fillers and preservatives.
Excipients of hydrocortisone ointment:
- petrolatum;
- purified water;
- anhydrous lanolin;
- stearic acid;
- parabens (nipagin and nipazole);
- pentol.
Hydrocortisone acetate is part of ophthalmic preparations. The Russian-made medicine contains 5 mg. hydrocortisone acetate in 1 gram. Excipients: Vaseline and nipagin.
Hydrocortisone-Pos ophthalmic ointment 1% and 2.5% contains 10 and 25 mg, respectively. active substance. Additional ingredients: petroleum jelly, lanolin, liquid paraffin.
The external agent and eye ointment have a uniform consistency. Transparent, white or white with a yellowish tint. Hydrocortisone eye ointment is packaged in tubes of 2.5-5 g, a preparation with the same active ingredient for external use - 5-30 g.
Other pharmaceutical anti-wrinkle ointments
It is worth noting several drugs popular among supporters of hydrocortisone ointment:
- D-panthenol - has regenerating potential, neutralizes inflammation, strengthens collagen fibers;
- Curiosin - contains zinc with hyaluronic acid
- acid, has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties;
- Heparin ointment - quickly relieves puffiness, eliminates dark circles under the eyes;
- Radevit is a vitamin ointment that improves complexion and smoothes the skin;
- Relief is a good ointment that restores blood circulation, smoothes wrinkles and heals dark circles under the eyes;
- Retinoic ointment - supports tissue regeneration at the cellular level, relieves inflammation, normalizes sebum secretion;
Zinc ointment - protects and whitens the skin, smoothes wrinkles, evens out skin tone.
Properties
Some people are concerned about the side effects of hormonal medications. This type of phobia has been described in medicine and psychology. There are dermatologist patients who are skeptical about the use of any steroid drugs. In this regard, many are interested in whether Hydrocortisone is a hormonal ointment or not.
Hydrocortisone (cortisol) is a glucocorticoid hormone of steroid origin (GCS), produced by the human adrenal cortex. For local use, its synthetic analogue in the form of ether is used. The product has almost no side effects when used externally.
Possible negative reactions (develop when used in large doses or for too long):
- development of “steroid acne”;
- perioral dermatitis;
- addiction and skin atrophy.
The active substance hydrocortisone acetate in a dosage of 0.5-2.5%, depending on the content of the active substance, is a topical corticosteroid with a weak or moderate anti-inflammatory effect.
Use Hydrocortisone ointment for the face, apply to the neck, skin folds (under the breast, in the armpit, elbow, wrist, groin), and perineal area.
Is hydrocortisone ointment hormonal or not?
The main active ingredient of the ointment is the human adrenal hormone - hydrocortisone (or rather, its chemical compound hydrocortisone acetate). In addition to hydrocortisone acetate, the ointment contains formative components (vaseline and lanolin), as well as preservatives. The effect of hydrocortisone is manifested in the rapid blocking of the development of inflammation. Hydrocortisone inhibits the release of exudate and limits the development of inflammatory edema, and also starts vital processes and thereby removes the body from a state of shock.
Hydrocortisone is widely used in medicine to relieve severe allergic reactions, attacks of asthmatic suffocation, severe edema, kidney and liver failure - in general, to save a person’s life.
Based on this hormone, several forms of the drug are produced (for a general effect on the body and for local treatment). These are suspensions and powders for the preparation of injections (intramuscular, intra-articular), as well as tablets, eye drops and external ointments (regular and ophthalmic). The drug does not have a long-term effect. A positive result can be achieved by doing several procedures, but the result may disappear after a few months. Therefore, before you start using hydrocortisone ointment for wrinkles, you need to weigh the pros and cons, and then consult a doctor.
pharmachologic effect
Hydrocortisone is involved in many physiological processes in the body, for example, it regulates the course of inflammatory reactions. In some cases, suppressing the body's own defense mechanism is helpful. Allergies involve an overreaction of the immune system to habitual irritants. A hormonal substance suppresses this excessive reaction.
Let’s clarify what Hydrocortisone ointment helps with. The medicine reduces inflammation that is already occurring, but does not eliminate its cause.
Action of the drug:
- reduces exudation (fluid release from permeable capillaries into the intercellular space);
- has a local anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous effect;
- accelerates the removal of scales and keratinization;
- eliminates skin redness;
- relieves itching.
Elderly people and young children are not recommended to use external GCS-based products frequently and for a long time for the face and body. The active substance from the drugs accumulates in the stratum corneum of the skin. A depot is formed, from which the active ingredient is slowly released and passes into the dermis.
With age, the skin becomes thinner and the stratum corneum no longer retains cortisone. This threatens rapid absorption of the substance into the blood and an increased risk of negative effects. The same applies to the skin of young children.
Mechanism of action of the drug
Hydrocortisone ointment 1% is a glucocorticosteroid. The active substance of this drug suppresses the functions of tissue macrophages and leukocytes, limiting their migration to the area of inflammation. It disrupts the ability of macrophages to phagocytose and also prevents the formation of interleukin-1. The substance helps stabilize lysosomal membranes, resulting in a decrease in the concentration of proteolytic enzymes in the area of inflammation. In addition, capillary permeability decreases, which is caused by the release of histamine, and the following processes are also suppressed:
- collagen formation;
- release of tsog;
- fibroblast activity;
- release of actg and β-lipotropin by the pituitary gland;
- synthesis of leukotrienes and prostaglandins;
- antibody formation;
- secretion of FSH and TSH.
Hydrocortisone ointment 1% has a vasoconstrictor effect on blood vessels. Also, the active substance of this drug affects the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. It helps stimulate gluconeogenesis and its enzyme activity. In the liver, under the influence of the drug, the deposition of glycogen begins to increase. As a result, the activity of glycogen synthetase, as well as the synthesis of glucose arising from the products of protein metabolism, occurs more pronouncedly. This, by the way, can lead to the release of more insulin. Hydrocortisone also helps suppress the uptake of glucose by fat cells, and ultimately activate lipolysis.
What is Hydrocortisone ointment used for?
Unpleasant pimples, minor sunburns - you can get rid of these and other skin problems without visiting a doctor with the help of a drug based on GCS.
A short list of what Hydrocortisone ointment is used for is supplemented by conditions such as allergies and insect bites. The external remedy alleviates inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, neurodermatitis, and psoriasis.
The use of Hydrocortisone ointment is indicated for inflammatory and allergic skin diseases with minor symptoms. The hormonal agent acts locally - only in the area to which it is applied.
Indications for Hydrocortisone ointment for external use:
- dermatitis (atopic, allergic, contact);
- moderate inflammation of the skin;
- skin itching of unknown etiology;
- reactions to insect bites;
- various forms of eczema;
- lichen planus;
- dyshidrosis of the hands;
- sunburn;
- erythroderma;
- neurodermatitis;
- pruritus;
- seborrhea;
- psoriasis.
Hydrocortisone does not help with infectious, parasitic and sexually transmitted diseases.
Eye ointment is used for allergic eye diseases. The product is used for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory processes after injuries, surgery on the eyeball, and previous keratitis.
Indications for the use of Hydrocortisone ointment (ophthalmic) are also: blepharitis, blepharoconjunctivitis, keratoconjunctivitis, acute and chronic iritis, iridocyclitis. If the cornea is damaged by a chemical or thermal burn, the drug is applied after epithelization of the cornea.
What is ointment used for?
When applied to the skin, hydrocortisone accumulates in the granular layer of the epidermis, where initial metabolism occurs. The substance is then metabolized in the liver and excreted from the body in urine and bile. This drug helps with skin lesions of a non-infectious nature. With its help, allergic reactions and inflammation are eliminated. Treatment of insect bites is possible (hydrocortisone has antipruritic properties). Indications for use
:
- eczema;
- psoriasis;
- dermatitis;
- neurodermatitis;
- increased sebum production;
- allergy.
The drug can be used for ultrasound of joints, varicose veins, fractures and some gynecological pathologies. This treatment method is called phonoresis. This procedure is also used in gynecology. Phonoresis with this ointment is carried out for diseases of the uterus and ovaries, infertility and menstrual irregularities. The use of eye ointment is indicated in the following cases:
- conjunctivitis;
- blepharitis;
- iritis;
- keratitis;
- for various eye injuries and burns.
Instructions for use of Hydrocortisone ointment
The medicine is applied in a thin layer to the affected area of the skin. The amount of the drug is on the tip of your finger. Gently rub the product in without pressing on the skin. After applying the medicine, you should wash your hands.
How to use hydrocortisone ointment
Patient age | Single dose | Total dose | Time |
At the beginning of treatment | |||
Children from 2 years old and adults | At the tip of your finger | 2-3 times a day | Regardless of the time of day |
Subsequent treatment | |||
Children from 2 years old and adults | At the tip of your finger | Once a day | Regardless of the time of day, every 2-3 days |
To prevent negative effects, the product can be used for weeks. The drug is applied for 7 days, then a break is taken for the next week. Or they use another scheme: apply for 3 days, then take a 4-day break. For chronic skin diseases, use the medicine several times a week on the most frequently inflamed areas of the skin.
The duration of treatment is usually 6-14 days. If symptoms persist and the disease persists, you can use the drug for up to 20 days. When the clinical picture improves, it should be applied for another 1-2 days to avoid relapse of the disease.
To enhance the effect, use an occlusive dressing on limited areas of the skin.
Instructions for use of Hydrocortisone ointment limit the duration of treatment with the drug for children to 7 days. Eliminates measures leading to increased absorption of hormonal substances: fixing and occlusive dressings, warm compresses.
Application of eye ointment
A strip of the drug 0.5-1 cm long is placed in the conjunctival sac. The second method is used for the eyelids - applied externally to inflamed areas.
The frequency of use of Hydrocortisone ointment for the eyes is 2 times a day. The duration of treatment is no more than 2 weeks. To prevent inflammatory processes after epithelization of the cornea, apply 1 or 2 times a day.
For allergies and dermatitis
Allergic reactions are accompanied by redness and itching of the skin. Small and large blisters form. The active substance of the drug suppresses inflammatory processes in the skin and prevents the release of histamine. Hydrocortisone ointment for allergies and dermatitis prevents further damage to the skin as a result of scratching.
Apply a thin layer of the product to the affected areas and rub in gently. Apply 2-3 times a day. After the skin condition improves, use the drug once a day, then every 2-3 days. For vulvitis, use the medicine at night to relieve severe itching.
For eczema and lichen
Hydrocortisone ointment treats eczema and lichen planus, a chronic disease caused by immune inflammation. The drug does not help against lichen caused by infection with a fungus.
A drug is used with a concentration of the active ingredient from 0.5 to 2.5%. Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1-2 times a day. As the skin heals and regenerates, the amount of the drug is reduced. Treatment should not be stopped abruptly. It is necessary to gradually reduce the dose and number of applications.
For psoriasis
Hard white plaques and silvery scales form on the affected areas. Psoriasis, which is called palmar psoriasis, causes dry, red-pink pimples.
Hydrocortisone ointment is applied under the bandage after a softening bath. The product should not be used on severely damaged skin, on an area of more than 10% of the body surface.
For the nose
Hydrocortisone is used for prolonged runny nose in combination with other drugs. A liquid solution of a hormonal substance is used, prepared from a suspension in ampoules or tablets.
Hydrocortisone ointment should not be put into the nose, since the product contains petroleum jelly and is not intended for the mucous membrane.
For the ears
Hydrocortisone ointment is used for the ear for allergic external otitis in acute or chronic form. The medicine is applied to cotton wool and placed in the ear canal. The drug helps get rid of severe itching. Apply 2 times a day.
For joints
For pain and inflammation that accompany joint diseases, it is possible to prescribe a suspension for intramuscular and intra-articular administration or a solution of Hydrocortisone in ampoules.
Intra-articular and periarticular administration of GCS drugs is carried out in a hospital or clinic. Hydrocortisone ointment for joints does not give the same effect as injection directly into the joint.
It is possible to use Hydrocortisone in the form of an ointment or solution for electrophoresis. The drug eliminates the symptoms of inflammation in the joint area and exhibits a metabolic effect. The effect of the administration of the GCS drug lasts for 1-2 weeks.
For hemorrhoids
Hydrocortisone ointment for hemorrhoids is used after hygiene measures. The drug is used for external hemorrhoids, fissures, dermatitis and itching in the anal area.
Squeeze out a strip of medication the length of the phalanx of the index finger. Apply a thin layer to the affected area of skin and inject a little into the rectal canal. Apply 1-3 times a day depending on the severity of the disease. The duration of treatment is from 7 to 20 days.
Indications for use
The main area of application of the drug “Hydrocortisone ointment” is local inflammatory and autoimmune reactions. The drug is used when the disease does not have an infectious etiology. Its indications for use are as follows:
- various types of eczema (dry, post-traumatic, herpetiform, callous, scaly, seborrheic);
- allergic dermatitis;
- acute forms of psoriasis;
- blood-sucking bites, accompanied by severe inflammation and itching;
- seborrhea having a neurological etiology;
- systemic illnesses;
- trophic ulcers and burns.
In addition, hormonal ointment is used to treat inflammatory diseases of the musculoskeletal system, in particular joints (arthritis, polyarthritis, fractures, post-traumatic osteoarthritis). However, for these purposes, hydrocortisone emulsion is more often used and injected into the affected joint. This is done by a traumatologist-orthopedist once, less often twice, on an outpatient basis.
In this case, the ointment can also be used, but as an addition to therapy and maintaining the anti-inflammatory effect. A good effect is obtained when prescribed in parallel with physiotherapy sessions (ultrasound, electrophoresis). In addition to quick results, the side effects of hydrocortisone are reduced, since the medicine acts more specifically.
The main indications are as follows:
- non-infectious conjunctivitis (inflammation of the mucous membrane of the cornea of the eye); blepharitis (damage to the outer edges of the eyelids);
- uveitis (inflammation of the uvea of the eyes);
- keratitis (inflammation of the cornea).
Use in cosmetology
The use of Hydrocortisone ointment for acne is a temporary measure that does not eliminate the cause of the rash. This could be hormonal changes in the body, bacterial growth, or excessive activity of the sebaceous glands. The drug is applied only to the pimple itself, used in a short course, no longer than 3 days.
Hydrocortisone ointment is used in cosmetology as a means to reduce inflammation. The drug is used in short courses. They take a break between them - from 3 to 7 days.
When applying Hydrocortisone ointment for wrinkles in adulthood, there is a risk of increased intraocular pressure. It is not advisable to use the product on the lips due to the increased risk of ingestion and systemic action.
Reviews on the use of Heparin ointment for wrinkles
Unfortunately, I didn’t see any results. I cannot recommend this ointment because it did me neither harm nor benefit.
Julia
https://jkrasa.ru/kosmetologiya/preparaty/effektivna-li-gidrokortizonovaya-maz-protiv-morshhin-otzyvy.html
After using the ointment for wrinkles around the eyes, swelling appeared, and the wrinkles eventually stretched and became even more noticeable. It is quite possible that this is an allergic reaction, however, it is clear that this drug is not suitable for everyone.
Sofia
https://www.blog-o-krasote.ru/post-gidrokortizonovaya_maz_ot_morshhin_otzyvy.html
I love experimenting with different creams and homemade beauty recipes. I read a lot of positive reviews on the Internet about ointment with hydrocortisone, that it perfectly retains moisture and thanks to this smooths out wrinkles. I decided to try it against crow's feet. I applied it at night to the wrinkles under my eyes after washing my face with foam in the evening for a week. The effect appeared very quickly - the skin began to look fresher and healthier.
Yana
https://limelady.ru/gidrokortizonovaya-maz-protiv-morshhin-opisanie-i-otzyvy-lyudej.html
Hydrocortisone ointment is a good remedy for wrinkles, but it must be used carefully so as not to make it worse. This remedy should only be used with the permission of a doctor.
- Author: woman
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Contraindications
The drug should not be used in case of hypersensitivity to hydrocortisone or any of the auxiliary components. The drug is contraindicated for wound and ulcerative lesions, in children under 2 years of age, and during lactation.
Other contraindications to the use of Hydrocortisone ointment for the skin:
- viral, bacterial and fungal infections;
- syphilitic lesions;
- perioral dermatitis;
- acne vulgaris (acne);
- lupus;
- skin tumors;
- Rosacea.
Hydrocortisone ointment during pregnancy is strictly contraindicated in the first trimester. In gynecology, it is possible to prescribe GCS to pregnant women in later stages after assessing the risk to the unborn child.
Contraindications for Hydrocortisone-Pos ointment include tuberculosis and fungal eye infections, trachoma and the vaccination period. Eye ointment should not be used for corneal herpes and other viral diseases of the organ of vision.
During pregnancy and lactation, in children over 1 year of age, the use of the drug is possible, but after assessing the risk to the fetus or child.
Side effects
In rare cases, allergic reactions occur in the form of hyperemia and swelling. Itching and burning may occur. Occasionally, the use of GCS drugs causes infectious skin lesions and hypertrichosis.
Side effects for external use:
- allergic and drug dermatitis;
- secondary infection;
- hypopigmentation;
- skin maceration;
- acne;
- folliculitis;
- prickly heat;
- eczema;
- striae.
With prolonged use and application to large areas of skin, systemic side effects characteristic of hormonal drugs may develop. Uncontrolled use of the ophthalmic drug occasionally leads to secondary glaucoma and dermatoconjunctivitis.
Storage conditions and shelf life
Hydrocortisone ointment should be stored away from sources of light and heat, out of the reach of children. Heating the air in the room above 20-25°C is not allowed. The shelf life of the drug is 2 years.
The medicine should not be used after the expiration date indicated on the tube, cardboard box and in the annotation.
Analogs
All ointments based on hydrocortisone for external use with the same content of active ingredient, produced in Russia, are complete analogues. They have the same indications, contraindications, and method of use.
Group analogues of Hydrocortisone ointment - medicines for itching, rash and redness of the skin with other corticosteroids. Many of them are 2-3 times, or even an order of magnitude more expensive than the Russian drug.
Trade name of hormonal ointment or cream (active ingredient):
- Locoid (hydrocortisone 17-butyrate);
- Dermosolone, Aurobin (prednisolone);
- Akriderm, Beloderm (betamethasone);
- Afloderm (alclomethasone);
- Lorinden (flumethasone);
- Elokom (mometasone).
An incomplete analogue is the combined drug Gioxyzon. The product contains hydrocortisone and an antibiotic. The ointment is used when the affected area is infected.
Electrophoresis with Hydrocortisone at home
In the treatment of many diseases, the physiotherapeutic effect of current, in particular electrophoresis, is indicated. A distinctive feature of the method is to overcome skin resistance and ensure penetration of medicinal substances into its upper layers. Accumulating in the epidermis and dermis, the medicine continues to enter the tissues and bloodstream for a certain time and has a therapeutic effect. Depending on the disease, different drugs are used for the procedure. Why is electrophoresis with hydrocortisone prescribed, what features and contraindications does the method have? More on that later.
What is electrophoresis?
The essence of the electrophoresis technique is the action of direct current on the damaged area. For this, two electrodes are used: the anode (positively charged), and the cathode, which has a negative charge. Each of them has a different effect on subcutaneous structures. In the first case, the electrode leads to vasodilation, activates the activity of the endocrine system, and promotes relaxation of muscle tissue.
The anode has an anti-inflammatory effect, eliminates pain, and relieves swelling.
Be sure to place a cloth under the electrodes. This can be gauze or other cotton material with a layer of about 1 cm; you can also find cardboard pads for disposable use on sale. It is important that the napkin protrudes beyond the edges of the electrode by approximately 2 cm around the entire perimeter. Among the effects of electrophoresis are:
- increased metabolism;
- acceleration of regenerative processes;
- elimination of inflammatory symptoms (pain, swelling, redness);
- ensuring the flow of medicinal substances, nutrients, and oxygen to the damaged area;
- removal of toxic metabolites from tissues;
- improving the patient's well-being.
Don't expect results after 1-2 sessions. The therapeutic result of the method manifests itself over time, since it has a cumulative and prolonged effect. Electrophoresis provides better penetration of the drug, which explains the widespread use of this method. The drug accumulates in the upper layers of the skin, and then gradually enters the bloodstream, intercellular space, and deep-lying structures, reaching the affected area.