Applying Topical Hormone Creams

How do I apply a hormone cream?

Most creams are usually applied in doses of 0.5 or 1 ml. Check your directions on your prescription label to find out your precise dose. Using the inner wrist to apply the cream helps decrease possible transference of cream to other people or objects while allowing for maximum absorption of the cream by the blood vessels in the inner wrist. Apply your hormone cream at the same time each day.

For syringes:

1. Remove the cap from the syringe and gently push down on the plunger to dispense the correct amount of cream onto one of the inner wrists.
2. Rub both inner wrists together until the cream is absorbed.

Helpful Hints:

• Application sites may be changed every 3-4 days so that no one site becomes saturated. Fatty tissue tends to store hormones, so application sites should have minimal fat with visible veins. Application sites can include the inner wrist, inner elbow, or inner groin. For men applying testosterone cream, it is important to avoid fatty areas because testosterone can be converted to estrogen when stored in fat. Men may also use their upper arm or shoulder area for application.

• Do not apply other creams or moisturizers to the same areas or wash the area for 30-60 minutes after application to avoid diluting the medication. If you do not use your wrist to apply the cream, please wash hands after applying.

• After applying hormone creams, avoid touching other people or pets with the area of application because it can be transferred through the skin. Avoid bathing or swimming right after application.