It's a great question and one we are frequently asked! Please see the "Smart Pharmaceuticals" tab under the Ingredients page for a full break down of the use of hydrocortisone and benzathonium chloride in several of our medicated ointments. The short answer is that we use a small amount (1%) hydrocortisone, an effective topical steroid, in some of our formulas to calm irritated or itchy skin. The hydrocortisone combines with ingredients like aloe, arnica, calendula and tea tree oil to optimize the healing benefits of each ingredient for rapid healing without a prescription.