It's just a steroid, Mari. Don't fret over the chemical/structural formula. All compounds have one!

I found a Topical Steroid Potency chart.
http://www.psoriasis.org/about-psori.../potency-chart
It shows hydrocortisone 2% amongst the least potent, with desoide 0.5% being more potent - in the lower mid-strength range.

I personally would choose the stronger of the two for your rash. This isn't a mild skin inflammation - without treatment it is something that could take a couple of weeks. Even with the steroid it might. It definitely needs to prevented from worsening. Urushiol rashes can scar.

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FYI: I've experienced increased itching/burning upon application of steroid creams, particularly when used on very inflamed skin. The skin settles down soon afterwards, but it freaked me out so I asked my former doctor (who was good) about this. She said it was due to anti-inflammatory action. Beats me how, but she assured me it was perfectly ok.
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With hubby, take your time. Take care of yourself, right now. Reset, regroup, feel better. Explain when you are up to it. (Or hook him up to yahoo messenger sometime... and I'll try to explain it to him! )



waves