Mildison is a mild topical corticosteroid containing the active ingredient hydrocortisone. It is used to reduce inflammation, redness and itching associated with inflammatory skin conditions.
It belongs to a group of medicines called topical corticosteroids. These should not be confused with anabolic steroids, which are sometimes misused by athletes. Topical corticosteroids work on the skin to reduce inflammation, redness and itching.
How does it work?
Hydrocortisone reduces inflammation by suppressing the body's inflammatory response in the skin. This helps relieve redness, swelling and itching.
Topical corticosteroids control the symptoms and signs of inflammatory skin conditions while they are being used, but they do not cure the underlying condition. The condition may return after treatment is stopped.
Who can get it?
Mildison is available on prescription for adults, older people and children.
Children, particularly infants, are more susceptible to the effects of topical corticosteroids. Treatment should therefore use the smallest amount necessary and for the shortest appropriate period.
How is it used?
Apply a small amount as a thin layer to the affected area two or three times a day, or as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Gently rub it into the skin.
The formulation can be used on both dry, scaly areas and moist or weeping areas.
Wash your hands after application unless your hands are the area being treated.
In children and infants, prolonged treatment should be avoided. Treatment should generally be limited to short courses, as advised by the doctor.
Do not use more than recommended. Applying too much, too frequently or for too long can increase the risk of side effects.
What are the side effects?
Like all medicines, Mildison can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them.
Possible side effects include:
- burning or irritation
- itching
- skin thinning, particularly with prolonged use
- stretch marks
- changes in skin colour
- inflammation of the hair follicles
- increased hair growth
- allergic contact dermatitis.
Prolonged or excessive use, particularly on large areas, in skin folds, in the nappy area or under occlusive dressings, can increase absorption of hydrocortisone through the skin.
In rare cases, significant absorption can affect the body's natural production of corticosteroid hormones. This risk is greater in infants and children.
Nappies can act as an occlusive dressing and may increase absorption.
Mildison contains cetostearyl alcohol, which may cause local skin reactions such as contact dermatitis, and methyl parahydroxybenzoate, which may cause allergic reactions, sometimes after a delay.
If you develop significant irritation, an allergic reaction or any other unusual symptoms, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or are breastfeeding, speak to your doctor before using Mildison.
If treatment is considered necessary, the smallest amount needed should generally be used for the shortest appropriate period.
How do I get Mildison?
Mildison is available on prescription as a topical preparation containing hydrocortisone.
Marketed
by Mildison is marketed in the UK by Astellas Pharma Ltd
Reviewed: August 2026
Version ID: 2/MIL/PST/08/26
