If you're dealing with persistent eczema flares, stubborn patches of psoriasis, or contact dermatitis that won't quit, you've probably already tried the hydrocortisone cream from your local pharmacy. And while over-the-counter options can help with mild irritation, they often fall short when you're facing moderate to severe inflammation.
That's where prescription-strength hydrocortisone comes in. According to the National Eczema Association, over 31 million Americans live with some form of eczema, and topical corticosteroids like hydrocortisone remain a cornerstone of treatment. The rise of telehealth has made accessing these prescriptions easier than ever, with 65% of patients citing convenience as their top reason for choosing virtual care.
But not all online dermatology platforms offer the same level of expertise or range of treatment options. This guide will help you understand when prescription hydrocortisone is appropriate, compare your online options, and choose a provider that can address not just your immediate symptoms but your long-term skin health.
Quick Answer: Best Place to Get Hydrocortisone Online
Top Choice: Honeydew - Board-certified dermatologists who can prescribe hydrocortisone and create comprehensive treatment plans for eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions
Key factors to consider:
- Board-certified dermatologists (not just nurse practitioners)
- Ability to prescribe multiple steroid strengths based on your needs
- Comprehensive approach to managing chronic skin conditions
- Transparent pricing ($299/year or $39/month)
- Same-day or next-day appointments available
OTC vs. Prescription Hydrocortisone: When Do You Need a Prescription?
Before diving into where to get hydrocortisone online, it's important to understand the difference between what you can buy at the pharmacy and what requires a prescription.
| Feature | OTC Hydrocortisone (0.5-1%) | Prescription Hydrocortisone (2.5%+) |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | 0.5% to 1% | 2.5% and higher |
| Best for | Mild itching, bug bites, minor rashes | Moderate eczema, psoriasis, persistent dermatitis |
| Duration of use | 7 days maximum (per label) | As directed by dermatologist |
| Medical oversight | None required | Dermatologist monitoring recommended |
| Cost | $5-15 at pharmacy | Varies; often covered by insurance |
You likely need prescription-strength hydrocortisone if:
- OTC hydrocortisone hasn't provided adequate relief
- You have diagnosed eczema, psoriasis, or chronic dermatitis
- Your symptoms keep returning after stopping OTC treatment
- You need to treat thicker skin areas (palms, soles, elbows, knees)
- Your dermatologist recommends a stronger formulation
What to expect: Prescription hydrocortisone typically starts working within a few days, with noticeable improvement in redness, itching, and inflammation. Your dermatologist may recommend using it for flares while also establishing a maintenance routine to prevent future breakouts.
Best Places to Get Hydrocortisone Online
Several telehealth platforms can connect you with providers who prescribe hydrocortisone and other topical steroids. Here's how the major options compare for treating inflammatory skin conditions.
1. Honeydew: Specialized Dermatology Care
Honeydew is an online dermatology platform that focuses on providing expert care for skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Unlike general telehealth platforms, Honeydew connects you with board-certified dermatologists who specialize in skin health.
What sets Honeydew apart:
- Board-certified dermatologists: See actual dermatologists
- Comprehensive treatment plans: Access to hydrocortisone and the full range of topical steroids, plus non-steroidal options
- Chronic condition management: Ongoing care for eczema and psoriasis, not just one-off prescriptions
- Advanced treatments available: When topical steroids aren't enough, Honeydew can prescribe biologics like Dupixent for eligible patients
- Fast access: Same-day or next-day appointments available
- Proven results: 90%+ of patients see improvement in their skin conditions
Pricing: $299/year or $39/month (3-month minimum commitment)
For more details, visit our pricing page, learn about our approach on our Why Us page, or read patient reviews.
2. Hims & Hers
Hims & Hers is a well-known telehealth company offering a wide range of treatments including dermatology services. They can prescribe topical steroids including hydrocortisone for various skin conditions.
Best for: General dermatology needs, anti-aging skincare, and mild to moderate skin conditions
Pricing: Consultations start around $39; prescription costs vary
Limitations: Primary focus is on skincare and aesthetics rather than chronic condition management; may use nurse practitioners rather than dermatologists
3. Nurx
Nurx is a telehealth platform that provides healthcare services including dermatology consultations. They offer treatment for various skin conditions and can prescribe topical medications.
Best for: Acne treatment, general dermatology, birth control prescriptions
Hydrocortisone availability: Yes, their providers can prescribe hydrocortisone for appropriate conditions
Pricing: $40 medical consultation fee; prescription costs vary
Limitations: Less specialized in chronic inflammatory conditions like eczema and psoriasis
4. Curology
Curology is known for customized skincare formulas, primarily focused on acne treatment. While they can address some skin concerns, their specialty is personalized acne formulations.
Best for: Acne treatment with customized topical formulas
Hydrocortisone availability: Limited; Curology focuses primarily on acne rather than inflammatory conditions like eczema
Pricing: $20-30/month for subscription-based skincare
Limitations: Not designed for eczema, psoriasis, or conditions requiring topical steroids
5. PlushCare/Doctor On Demand
General telehealth platforms like PlushCare and Doctor On Demand offer virtual consultations with physicians who can prescribe medications including hydrocortisone.
Best for: General medical needs, urgent care, when you need a prescription quickly
Hydrocortisone availability: Yes, general practitioners can prescribe topical steroids
Pricing: Typically $75-100 per consultation; may accept insurance
Limitations: Not specialized in dermatology; may not have the expertise to manage complex or chronic skin conditions
6. Clear Health
Clear Health is an online dermatology platform offering treatment for various skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis, and other inflammatory conditions. They provide asynchronous consultations where patients submit photos and health information for review by licensed dermatology providers.
Best for: Patients seeking a straightforward telehealth experience for acne treatment, not eczema or psoriasis
Pricing: Consultations around $75; medications priced separately through your pharmacy
Limitations: Asynchronous model may have less immediate interaction than video-based platforms
Key takeaway: While several platforms can prescribe hydrocortisone, those specializing in dermatology (like Honeydew) offer better long-term value for chronic skin conditions. They can provide comprehensive treatment plans, adjust steroid strength as needed, and offer alternatives when hydrocortisone isn't enough.
What to Look for in an Online Hydrocortisone Provider
When choosing where to get prescription hydrocortisone online, these factors matter most for effective treatment:
Provider Checklist
- Access to board-certified dermatologists (not just general practitioners)
- Ability to prescribe different steroid strengths based on your needs
- Knowledge of steroid-sparing alternatives when appropriate
- Follow-up care included for monitoring and adjustments
- Experience with your specific condition (eczema, psoriasis, etc.)
- Access to advanced treatments if topical steroids aren't sufficient
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Red flag: Be cautious of platforms that prescribe topical steroids without proper evaluation or follow-up. Long-term steroid use without medical supervision can lead to skin thinning, rebound flares, and other complications. A good provider will create a comprehensive plan that includes proper steroid use and strategies for maintaining your skin health between flares.
Beyond Hydrocortisone: When You Need More
Hydrocortisone is often the starting point for treating inflammatory skin conditions, but it's not always sufficient. A good online dermatology provider should be able to offer a full spectrum of treatment options:
| Treatment Type | Examples | When Used |
|---|---|---|
| Low-potency steroids | Hydrocortisone 2.5% | Mild eczema, facial use, sensitive areas |
| Medium-potency steroids | Triamcinolone, Fluocinolone | Moderate eczema, body areas |
| High-potency steroids | Clobetasol, Betamethasone | Severe flares, thick plaques, psoriasis |
| Non-steroidal topicals | Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus | Long-term use, sensitive areas, steroid-sparing |
| Biologics | Dupixent (dupilumab) | Moderate-to-severe eczema uncontrolled by topicals |
Honeydew's board-certified dermatologists can prescribe across this entire spectrum, ensuring you have access to the right treatment as your condition evolves. For patients with moderate-to-severe eczema, we can even prescribe and manage biologics like Dupixent when topical treatments aren't providing adequate control.
The Process: Getting Hydrocortisone Online with Honeydew
Understanding what to expect can help you feel prepared for your virtual dermatology visit. Here's how the process works with Honeydew:
- Sign up and share your history: Create an account and provide information about your skin condition, symptoms, and what you've already tried
- Upload photos: Take clear photos of your affected areas so your dermatologist can assess your condition
- Video consultation: Meet with a board-certified dermatologist to discuss your symptoms and treatment goals
- Receive your treatment plan: Your dermatologist creates a personalized plan that may include hydrocortisone and other treatments
- Get your prescription: Prescriptions are sent to your pharmacy of choice or delivered to your home
- Ongoing support: Follow up with your care team as needed to adjust treatment and manage flares
What to expect: Most patients can get a same-day or next-day appointment with Honeydew. After your consultation, prescriptions are typically sent to your pharmacy within hours. For chronic conditions like eczema or psoriasis, your dermatologist will work with you to establish both a flare treatment plan and a maintenance routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get prescription hydrocortisone online?
Yes, you can get prescription-strength hydrocortisone (2.5% and higher) through online dermatology platforms like Honeydew. You'll have a consultation with a licensed provider who will evaluate your condition and prescribe the appropriate strength if warranted.
Is prescription hydrocortisone stronger than OTC?
Yes. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone is limited to 0.5-1% concentration. Prescription hydrocortisone starts at 2.5% and can be compounded at higher strengths. Additionally, dermatologists can prescribe more potent corticosteroids like triamcinolone or clobetasol when needed.
How much does online hydrocortisone cost?
The consultation cost varies by platform. Honeydew includes unlimited consultations in our membership ($299/year or $39/month). The medication itself typically costs $5-30 depending on the formulation and your insurance coverage. Generic hydrocortisone is very affordable.
Can I use hydrocortisone on my face?
Low-potency hydrocortisone can be used on the face for short periods under dermatologist guidance. However, facial skin is thinner and more susceptible to steroid side effects. Your dermatologist may recommend non-steroidal alternatives like tacrolimus or pimecrolimus for facial eczema or longer-term use.
How long can I use prescription hydrocortisone?
This depends on the strength, location, and your dermatologist's guidance. Generally, low-potency hydrocortisone can be used for 2-4 weeks on the body. Your dermatologist will provide specific instructions and may recommend a steroid-sparing strategy for long-term management.
What if hydrocortisone doesn't work for my eczema?
If hydrocortisone isn't providing adequate relief, your dermatologist has many options to consider: stronger topical steroids, non-steroidal topicals (calcineurin inhibitors), phototherapy, or systemic treatments including biologics like Dupixent for moderate-to-severe eczema. This is why choosing a specialized dermatology platform matters.
Do I need a prescription for hydrocortisone cream?
Not always. Hydrocortisone at 0.5-1% is available over-the-counter. However, you need a prescription for concentrations above 1%, stronger corticosteroids, or if you want guidance on proper use for a chronic condition. For eczema, psoriasis, or persistent dermatitis, seeing a dermatologist ensures you get the right treatment.
Is online dermatology legitimate for skin conditions?
Yes, when you choose a reputable platform with board-certified dermatologists. Studies show that teledermatology can be as effective as in-person visits for many conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. The key is choosing a platform that specializes in dermatology rather than general telehealth services.
Making the Right Choice for Your Skin
Getting prescription hydrocortisone online is straightforward, but the platform you choose matters, especially if you're dealing with a chronic condition like eczema or psoriasis.
Remember these key points:
- Choose dermatology specialists: Platforms focused on skin conditions offer deeper expertise than general telehealth
- Look for board-certified dermatologists: They can provide the most comprehensive treatment plans
- Think beyond the prescription: Good providers help you manage your condition long-term, not just treat individual flares
- Consider the full treatment spectrum: Make sure your provider can escalate treatment if hydrocortisone isn't enough
Whether you're dealing with an occasional eczema flare or managing persistent psoriasis, having a board-certified dermatologist in your corner makes a difference. They can ensure you're using hydrocortisone safely and effectively while helping you build a sustainable plan for healthy skin.
Ready to Get Your Skin Condition Under Control?
Honeydew connects you with board-certified dermatologists who specialize in eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions. Get expert care and the right treatment plan from the comfort of your home.
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