Reddit mentions: The best cortisone treatments

I've had KP since I was a kid and am finally getting handle on it in my 30s. My current routine is glycolic lotion twice a day, creams on the affected areas 3-4 times a day, and then physical exfoliation and using zinc or sulfur soap a couple times a week to keep the bumps at bay. But since skincare is YMMV, here's the exhaustive list of almost two decades of treatment, in case some of these other things will work for you!

100% of the items can be purchased via Amazon in the US - it's pretty much the only way I shop.

Beginner Level

If your KP has just appeared, focus on physical+chemical exfoliation and moisturizing. Look for lotions with the following ingredients:

• Glycolic Acid [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/GLYTONE-Exfoliating-Body-Lotion-8-4/dp/B002D48QRK/ref=sr_1_7_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493069563&sr=1-7&keywords=glycolic+acid+lotion)
  
• Lactic Acid [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/AmLactin-12-Moisturizing-Lotion/dp/B000TTPZQ6/ref=pd_sim_194_9?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B000TTPZQ6&pd_rd_r=VMNB4G7XKMTDC8FCCPPW&pd_rd_w=3Hg0d&pd_rd_wg=6JKTf&psc=1&refRID=VMNB4G7XKMTDC8FCCPPW)
  
• Mandelic Acid [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Dr-Wu-4712052501942-Intensive-Renewal/dp/B00KQYJ9TI/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493069480&sr=1-4&keywords=mandelic+acid+serum)
  
• Azelaic Acid [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MSSJP9Y/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
  
• Salicylic Acid [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Paulas-Choice-Weightless-Treatment-Antioxidants/dp/B00CS5U172/ref=sr_1_7_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493069348&sr=1-7&keywords=paulas+choice+bha) (Or just use [Stridex Pads] (https://www.amazon.com/Stri-dex-Pads-Maximum-Strength-Pack/dp/B004WP0S74/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493069393&sr=1-1&keywords=stridex&th=1))
  
• Retinol [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Retinol-Surge-Moisturizer-Cream-2-5/dp/B00OQQLNG4/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1493070177&sr=8-1&keywords=body+merry+retinol)
  
• Urea [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Eucerin-Skin-Intensive-Treatment-Lotion/dp/B0098YQH2O/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493069275&sr=1-1&keywords=eucerin+urea)
  
  Paula's Choice and Derma Doctor's KP duty both work well because they combine a few of these, but you can also get Amlactin, Eucerin and Glytone which are more focused on a single ingredient. Nearly all of the Eucering, Gold Bond, Cetaphil, etc. creams that work have one of the above ingredients, so take a look at the back of the bottle or on CosDna to figure out what works best for you. Prescription creams include Carmol 40 and Ammonium Lactate in higher concentrations.
  
  Physical exfoliation includes:
  
  
• Salux cloths [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Salux-Nylon-Japanese-Beauty-Yellow/dp/B007IAE5WY/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493068965&sr=1-2&keywords=italy+towels)
  
• Italy towels [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004C8DR1U/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
  
• Hammam or Kessa mitts [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Zakias-Morocco-Kessa-Hammam-Exfoliating/dp/B0076YIPZU/ref=pd_sim_194_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0076YIPZU&pd_rd_r=XC3PKNKFAM2Z88K10WDT&pd_rd_w=M6c0H&pd_rd_wg=fsKqw&psc=1&refRID=XC3PKNKFAM2Z88K10WDT)
  
• Dry brushing [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01DHHJ9S6/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
  
• Sugar scrubs [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Tree-Hut-Sugar-Scrub-Moroccan/dp/B01EXDOQZY/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493069250&sr=1-2-spons&keywords=sugar+scrub&psc=1)
  
• Salt scrubs [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01F7WA2X0/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
  
• St. Ives wash [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00J4YY4DM/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
  
• Lush Buffy Scrub [[Link]] (http://www.lushusa.com/body/body-butters/buffy/02127.html)
  
  My dermatologist also recommended moisturizing CONSTANTLY, which really helped smoothe my arms. According to his instructions, "constantly" meant that I needed to be able to feel the lotion on my skin 24/7 for at least 3 weeks, which for me meant a new layer of cream every hour or two. Pretty much any moisturizing lotion or cream will do. I'm partial to [CeraVe Moisturizing Cream] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013GDK3SQ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1) (creams are less watered down than lotions, and this one drys down wonderfully, leaveing my skin feeling buttery but not sticky). Lush dream cream and Aveeno are also faves.
  
  Intermediate Level
  
  If a bit of exfoliation and moisture aren't working, you might want to consider if there are other skin conditions making your KP worse. For example, it turned out for me I had some fungal skin issues that made my KP bumps more inflamed. Topical steroids can help, but use with care as they can cause skin thinning. Try adding something with the following ingredients in to see if any of the following work. Also talk with your derm about getting a mild prescription treatment that might include an antibacterial or steroid component.
  
  
• Sulfur (typically sulfur soap, although you can also buy some creams) [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00685KUGA/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
  
• 2% Pyrithione Zinc (ZnP) (In [soap] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MWB0ZGE/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&th=1) or [cream] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N434AWO/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1) form)
  
• Tea tree oil [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017L8ZUJE/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
  
• Clotrimazole [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Family-Care-Clotrimazole-Anti-Fungal-Cream/dp/B01K51YPCC/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493069707&sr=1-1&keywords=clotrimazole)
  
• Hydrocortisone [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Cortizone-Cream-Maximum-Strength-Anti-Itch/dp/B001AZTD52/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493069776&sr=1-1&keywords=hydrocortisone)
  
  As others have mentioned, sunlight also helps. Either give yourself 15 minutes of sun a day or look into UV treatments.
  
  Finally, consider dietary factors – for me cutting out dairy, sugar, and gluten when I really want crystal clear skin makes a big difference. Adding healthy oils and fats to your diet can also improve skin quality.
  
  Advanced Level
  
  I not only have KP, but years of scarring and redness (Post Inflammatory Erythema, or PIE) from picking at the bumps when I was younger. Laser treatments have almost 100% gotten rid of this and made my arms the smoothest and clearest they've been in almost two decades. However, these are pricey (for me, ~$200 a treatment and it took 4) and a serious time commitment. But if nothing else works, consider it.
  
  Other Tips
  
  
• If you pick, use a hydrocolloid bandage right away to make things heal faster.
  
• Vitamin C, niacinamide, honey/propolis, rosehip oil/rosewater, and all those other things this sub and /r/AsianBeauty love can really help reduce redness.
  
• Avoid overly hot showers, as this can be dehydrating. On the other hand, drink lots of water to hydrate internally.
  
• There are a ton of home/natural remedies out there, including using apple cider vinegar and coconut oil, none of which worked for me. These are seriously YMMV. Apple cider vinegar is low Ph, so if that helps, try using a [low Ph cleanser] (https://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Foaming-Facial-Cleanser-Ounce/dp/B01N1LL62W/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493070492&sr=1-2&keywords=cerave+foaming+facial+cleanser) or [Ph adjusting toner] (https://www.amazon.com/MIZON-Daily-Clean-Toner-Fluid/dp/B00LUU42NU/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493070538&sr=1-1&keywords=ph+adjusting+toner), which might be less harsh. Similarly, coconut oil is antimicrobial and moisturizing, so give it a try and if it works, investigate whether you need more moisture or antibacterial/antifungal ingredients in your other products.
  
• Last but not least, don't sweat it! KP is incredibly common and nothing to worry about. I spent years being super paranoid about my arms and keeping them covered up, only to discover none of my friends even noticed my skin or cared at all.
  

FRAK PSORIASIS.

I've got it bad. I have three favorite things:

1. Psoriasin. It's icky yellow goo that smells very strongly, but used every day takes away the scales. If you have any open spots, don't get this in it until they close up.
   
   
2. Hydrocortizone Cream. When you go to the dermatologist, they give you a super strength version of this OTC stuff. It is for the itchiness, and really helps. But, I'm pretty sure it is a steroid, so you can't use it every 5 minutes.
   
   
3. Burt's Bees Hand Salve. This is a Godsend. Works 100x better than lotion when you're itchy and uncomfortable. Very oily but AMEN this stuff helps WITHOUT burning.
   

My cheeks looked just like that and I started using this and I really recommend trying it. It’s not crazy expensive and worth a shot. I wish you the best of luck!

This sub is the reason I finally stopped lurking.

It's not a cure, but I use this stuff. It's pretty relieving. When the urge is overwhelming it feels like fire to put it on. Wonderful, amazing fire.

I was down to 1/4 eyebrows on both sides, but now they're full again. It's a daily application but isn't very noticeable as it dries clear. Basically it makes the tingle go away so the urge isn't there, but the habit can still cause trouble.

I have some scaring on my forearms (little white dots) but I have not had any scarring left over on my legs, back, or stomach. That probably has more to do with the fact that those areas were constantly covered and I never wore sunscreen so my arms were always exposed to the sun. They are barely barely noticeable on my arms.

For the percentage, I've always gotten 1%. I'm not sure what all is available in your country, but it may also be listed as hydrocortisone cream. I'm currently using Cortizone-10 for my thighs, and I've used Aveeno Anti-Itch Cream. They are both 1%, but the Cortizone-10 has Aloe in it.

As for the scratching, I completely understand your pain. It would feel absolutely amazing to give in and scratch. It would literally give me chills it would feel so good, and then I'd look down to see my nails all bloody because I was literally gouging my skin.

If possible, try to wear as little clothing as possible to keep things from touching it and try a few different things to get the itch out if you absolutely cannot stand to not touch. Something that works for me (well... sometimes) is a pretend itch. I'll literally hold my hand over the itchy area and move my hand as if i'm scratching it, but I'm really scratching the air. I've also try blowing on it, cooling it, etc. Hydrocortisone cream should help. It is an anti-iching agent, but you have to let it dry. I know sometimes I'd get so impatient searching for immediate relief. It has to absorb into the skin to start working.

I haven't tried it, but it looks like there is a Benadryl Itch Stopping Cream. I know Benadryl is meant for allergies, so this might work. It has a histamine in it.

Also, check your local drug stores. We have cortisone cream in the US in every one of them, and in grocery stores, and convenient stores, etc. You may be able to get it quicker than through Amazon.

Yep, just went through the same thing. I happened to be at the RE for something else last week and even he was horrified. My butt was basically a red battlefield of welts.

RE called in a new script to Freedom but they don't carry it. I ended up ordering another vial in the meantime while the new script got figured out, and it hasn't bothered me at all. Welts are going down and it doesn't itch anymore. I have no idea why. I've started doing my own injections so maybe that's it? Or maybe your body rebels after about 3 weeks of PIO and then settles down?

Either way, I feel for ya. I hope it gets better soon! This stuff is the bomb, in the meantime: https://www.amazon.com/Benadryl-Relief-Extra-Strength-Ounce/dp/B00HQRCNWI/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1474913262&sr=8-1&keywords=benadryl%2Bgel&th=1

Get some of this. My guy had the same exact issues with consistent paw chewing and using this (initially once per day, for 14 days straight...now once every 48-72 hours). Make sure to spray good right in between the pads. I think it also helps after it’s been sprayed on liberally to work it in a little bit by massaging his feet....if he lets you lol.

Anything with zymox in the name has been a godsend for myself and my pup. No more 2am scratch extravaganzas for us!

There is this one gel made my bandaid and it is amazing for mosquito bites!

edit: Benadryl Children's Itch Cooling Gel 3 oz (Pack of 3) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001N0LDZW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_IFWwzb88E4N7H

I don't think it's always children's, it's definitely cheaper if you can find it at Walgreens or CVS and the cooking part is really the relieving part!

Damn dude, sorry to hear it came on so fast. Go get a tub of Eucerin and use it liberally. It will help with pain from the cracking of your skin. I wouldn't keep doing the 2 baths a day, that will probably just make it worse.

I get it in the nether regions as well, and the best thing I've found to relieve the itching/pain is Corticool It's a ripoff on amazon but you might be able to find it at your local drug store. Fair warning, it will burn like someone took a flamethrower to your crotch for about 5-10 seconds, but then it will feel much better.

I have a recurring eczema patch on my mustache area that'll flare up during allergy season, if I'm sick, or if I don't periodically apply these products on the areas. For me, the products I've used that healed it up a lot faster and got rid of that stinging sensation were Cortizone-10 Plus Ultra Moisturizing Cream (non-AB) and TonyMoly's Wonder Honey Moisture Cream.

I massage a small amount of the Cortizone-10 cream onto the area (and any area with an eczema patch on my body) until the cream isn't opaque anymore. I will then apply the TonyMoly cream on afterwards. I find that massaging the products into the skin help a lot more than just applying it. Whenever it dries down, I'll apply a sleeping pack all over my face like normal. However, I've only used the Cortizone-10 cream on my mustache area and under my chin, so I'm not 100% sure how it would be on the more sensitive facial areas. YMMV. Good luck!

I saw the dermatologist for this same thing. When I moved from TN to PA my skin went bonkers. She told me to use a 1% Hydrocortisone on it. I put a little on a Qtip and rub it in and it does the job. I was having it in my eyebrows and on my chin. This one is my favorite but I also use [this] (http://www.amazon.com/Cortaid-Maximum-Strength-Hydrocortisone-Cream/dp/B000GCMXYI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398641467&sr=8-1&keywords=cortaid). Both are over the counter and pretty cheap.

Scalpicin Scalp Itch Relief, 1.5 fl Oz. Maximum Strength (Pack of 2) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001G7Q6MW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_MsMYAbNNN70VK

Cortisone Roll-on liquid stick!! It's sooooo amazing!!

Edit: This stuff. It lasts a very long time too.
http://www.amazon.com/Cortizone-10-Hydrocortisone-Anti-Itch-Applicator-1-25/dp/B001VLY328

Antihistamine cream is pretty much made for situations like this. I've used it a few times on my face when I had bug bites there and it worked very well. I like using this one that I get from Dollar Tree for $1, but any cream containing diphenhydramine would work.

You could try Nizoral shampoo (https://www.amazon.com/Nizoral-Anti-Dandruff-Shampoo-Ketoconazole-Dandruff/dp/B00AINMFAC) and hydrocortisone 1% (https://www.amazon.com/Natureplex-Hydrocortisone-Cream-Tube-Pack/dp/B008SAJOEC) but if it doesn’t work I’d go see at least primary care. They should be able to manage you without sending you to a dermatologist.

If you're in the US (or have it available) look at the Benadryl Itch Stopping Gel. Works wonderfully on bug bites and poison ivy rashes, without needing to take a pill that affects your whole system (and can make you sleepy).

Spray-wise, look at some Picardin like Naturapel. Works really well to keep bugs off of you.

Perhaps Blue Star Ointment would help? It's not traditional, but it won't cause damage.

Fun thing about itches that I only learned somewhat recently: you can buy topical Benadryl spray or cream, and it seems to really help. At least, I skinned my knee pretty bad, and while it was healing up, it itched like crazy and I was constantly tempted to scratch it. So I sprayed some on before putting a band-aid on each morning, and it made a big difference. It also helped with a minor case of poison ivy.

i didnt, I'm in the US. But, i just checked on canadian amazon and found this for you ....

https://www.amazon.ca/Cortizone-10-Medicine-Maximum-Strength-Ointment/dp/B000YM889O/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1498181108&sr=8-4&keywords=cortizone+10

it will do the exact same thing as cortibalm.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002DW498M >_>

Why not just buy them?

https://www.amazon.com/First-Aid-Only-12-001-Antibiotic/dp/B007XZ5LEK/

https://www.amazon.com/First-Aid-Only-18-012-Hydrocortisone/dp/B00CEK3D8U/

about $2.20 shipped for a pack of 12, roughly 18 cents each packet

Get yourself some of this boo, living surrounded by the woods we live by this stuff!

This worked for me, but mine is prescribed and a bit stronger (I have a rash somewhere else).

drug stores usually carry it. BF and I used it on fungal stuff and funky things I couldn't identify, it's worth a shot.
http://www.amazon.com/Blue-Star-Ointment-Ringworm-Oz/dp/B000GCLSEE

They work well as a regular wiping thing. Have hydrocortisone and witch hazel in them, which regular wipes don't.

But for worse booty hole protrusions, get thyself some of this (any 1% hydrocortisone cream) and dab it all over after wiping. Outside only, not in. Tightens things up, helps keep everything where it should be.

But if things are seriously bad with the ol' chocolate starfish, go see a doctor instead of listening to some dude off the internet.

This shit works wonders. I use it on my pubic area; might be kinda weird on the face.

http://www.amazon.com/Cortizone-10-Strength-Crme-Boxes-Pack/dp/B002CVV1HQ/

And, living in NEPA and being really allergic to poison ivy, lots of Benadryl, Extra Strength