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Desonide vs. Hydrocortisone

Desonide is a topical steroid used on the skin to reduce inflammation, itching, and redness from certain skin conditions, including eczema. It comes in many forms, such as a cream, lotion, gel, and ointment. You apply it directly to the affected skin 2 to 4 times a day, depending on how serious the condition is. Potential side effects include burning, itching, and stinging where it's applied.

• Skin rashes and other skin irritations - cream, lotion, and ointment
• Eczema in adults and children 3 months and older - gel only

Cream:

• Itching (1%)
• Pain (1%)
• Rash (1%)
• Redness (1%)
• Irritation (1%)
• Burning (1%)

Lotion:

• Irritation (3%)
• Peeling of the skin (3%)
• Itching (3%)
• Redness (3%)
• Dryness (3%)

Ointment:

• Redness (6%)
• Itching (6%)
• Irritation (6%)
• Oily skin (6%)

Gel:

• Headache (2%)
• Burning (1%)
• Rash (1%)
• Itching (1%)

• Changes in stress hormone levels
• Skin infection
• Skin irritation

Topical hydrocortisone is a steroid medication used to treat different skin conditions, such as eczema. It's available in many different formulations, including cream, ointment, lotion, and solution. Some strengths are found over the counter (e.g., hydrocortisone 1%), while you need a prescription for others (e.g., hydrocortisone 2.5%). In general, most people experience few to no side effects while using topical hydrocortisone as directed. Rarely, topical hydrocortisone might cause topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). Watch out for skin rashes and irritations that get worse after stopping this medication.

Short-term relief of skin irritations (e.g., itching) due to:

• Skin inflammation
• Skin rashes
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Insect bites
• Poison ivy or oak
• Skin allergies
• Dry scalp
• Genital or rectal irritation

• Burning
• Itching
• Skin irritation
• Dry skin
• Inflamed hair follicles

• Hormone problems and withdrawal
• High blood sugar
• New or worsened skin infection
• Skin problems