Pimecrolimus and hydrocortisone

[Gledwin]

hello I have excema on my face and it’s being very stubborn.. I put hydrocortisone on it for 14 days and as soon as I stop putting it on it comes back. Dermatologist told me to alternate hydrocortisone and Pimecrolimus cream on it but I’m a bit worried about putting Pimecrolimus.. anybody had experience with that cream? Also don’t know how long I can keep putting hydrocortisone on for!

[lovesradio]

Oh dear that's very tricky. I have no experience of using pimecrolimus but you may find out more about it on the national Eczema Society's website.

[troy04]

Pimecrolimus is okay to apply on the face long term. It works like steroid but it's not a steroid. Applying hydrocortisone continuously long term is not a great choice, hence you have been told to alternate. Some dermatitis are stubborn and there's nothing you can do unfortunately - it always comes back. My advice would be: don't go in the sun when you have either of these on your face. Also, don't use soap on your face. Only use a medical grade cleanser - like Cetaphil. Most importantly, don't let anyone upgrade your steroid to a stronger one. If you do, hydrocortisone will not work well and you have to use the stronger steroid. Hope these help.