Treat Impetigo With Hydrogen Peroxide
Learn how Hydrogen Peroxide treats Impetigo, how to use it safely, who it's suitable for, and what results to expect. When clinically appropriate, our trained clinicians can assess your symptoms online and provide treatment without needing a GP appointment.
MEDICAL INFORMATION
Hydrogen Peroxide Key Facts
Who Manufactures Hydrogen Peroxide?
Hydrogen Peroxide is manufactured by various MHRA approved generic manufacturers.
What Form is Hydrogen Peroxide available in?
Hydrogen Peroxide is available as a 1% (10mg/1g) cream.
How do I store Hydrogen Peroxide?
Store Hydrogen Peroxide below 25°C, away from excess moisture and heat.
What is Hydrogen Peroxide used for?
Hydrogen Peroxide is used for the treatment of non-bullous impetigo under the NHS England commissioned Pharmacy First service
How does Hydrogen Peroxide work?
Hydrogen Peroxide is an antiseptic agent that helps prevent infections. It is effective against pathogenic micro-organisms.
When will I feel better and what should I do if I do not get better?
Your skin should start to improve after a few days. Seek medical advice if your impetigo has not improved after completion of treatment or is getting worse.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Hydrogen Peroxide?
It is not clear if it is safe to drink alcohol while using Hydrogen Peroxide cream. Speak to your health care provider about any medicines you use, as well as if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Do I need to take Hydrogen Peroxide with food?
You can use Hydrogen Peroxide cream on your skin with or without food. Make sure you wash your hands before and after applying the cream.
Who can and cannot take Hydrogen Peroxide?
You may use Hydrogen Peroxide if you meet the inclusion criteria for impetigo for the Pharmacy First service, but may not use Hydrogen Peroxide if you meet the exclusion criteria for impetigo for the Pharmacy First service.
How often do I need to take Hydrogen Peroxide?
Adults and children 1 year and over should apply a thin layer of the cream to the affected area(s) up to three times daily for 5 days.
What are the side effects of Hydrogen Peroxide?
Side effects of Hydrogen Peroxide include a mild burning sensation a short time after application. Read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medication for a full list of all the side effects.
Are there any Interactions of Hydrogen Peroxide with other drugs?
Hydrogen Peroxide cream is not compatible with topical iodine, permanganates or other stronger oxidising agents.
Other important information about Hydrogen Peroxide
Apply Hydrogen Peroxide cream at regular intervals and finish the course. Avoid contact with eyes and wash immediately with plenty of clean, cold water if it comes into contact with eyes. Avoid contact with fabric as Hydrogen Peroxide cream can bleach fabric. Apply only to the affected area(s) and do not apply to large or deep wounds or to healthy skin. Seek medical advice in the event of an adverse reaction or if any other new symptoms develop.
Does Hydrogen Peroxide interfere with conception and contraception?
Hydrogen Peroxide is not known to affect fertility in men or women and is not known to stop any type of contraception from working
Can I use Hydrogen Peroxide when breast feeding?
It's OK to use Hydrogen Peroxide cream while you're breastfeeding, unless you are currently breastfeeding with impetigo lesion(s) present on your breast. You are advised to avoid direct contact between the infant and impetigo lesion(s), and to wash your hands after applying Hydrogen Peroxide 1% cream and before touching the infant.
Can I use Hydrogen Peroxide if I am pregnant or planning to become pregnant?
It's safe to use Hydrogen Peroxide cream while you're pregnant unless you are under 16 years of age, in which case you meet the exclusion criteria for this service.
Medical Disclaimer
NowPatient has taken all reasonable steps to ensure that all material is factually accurate, complete, and current. However, the knowledge and experience of a qualified healthcare professional should always be sought after instead of using the information on this page. Before taking any drug, you should always speak to your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.
The information provided here about medications is subject to change and is not meant to include all uses, precautions, warnings, directions, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or negative effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a particular medication does not imply that the medication or medication combination is appropriate for all patients or for all possible purposes.
FAQs
Answers to Popular Questions About How Hydrogen Peroxide Treats Impetigo
What is Hydrogen Peroxide cream and how is it used for impetigo?
Hydrogen peroxide 1% cream (branded as Crystacide) is a topical antiseptic used as a first-line treatment for localised, non-bullous impetigo. Unlike fusidic acid, hydrogen peroxide is not an antibiotic and does not contribute to antibiotic resistance, making it an increasingly preferred first-choice option per NICE guidance. It works by releasing oxygen radicals that kill bacteria on the skin surface. Through Pharmacy First, a pharmacist can supply hydrogen peroxide cream for impetigo without a GP appointment.
How do I use Hydrogen Peroxide cream for impetigo?
Apply hydrogen peroxide 1% cream to the affected area two to three times daily for 5–7 days. Gently clean the affected skin with soap and water and pat dry before application. Apply a thin layer to the impetigo lesions. Wash your hands before and after each application. The cream may cause mild tingling or effervescence on the skin — this is normal and indicates it is working.
Why is Hydrogen Peroxide cream recommended over antibiotic creams?
NICE guidelines increasingly recommend hydrogen peroxide 1% cream as a first-line topical treatment for localised, non-bullous impetigo because it does not contribute to antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic resistance (particularly to fusidic acid) is a growing concern in the UK, and using non-antibiotic alternatives where effective helps preserve antibiotics for when they are most needed. Hydrogen peroxide cream has been shown to be as effective as topical fusidic acid for mild impetigo.
Can I get Hydrogen Peroxide cream through Pharmacy First?
Yes, the NHS Pharmacy First service allows pharmacists to supply hydrogen peroxide 1% cream for impetigo. It is often the first-choice topical treatment offered due to its effectiveness without contributing to antibiotic resistance. This is a free NHS service.
What are the side effects of Hydrogen Peroxide cream?
Side effects are generally mild. Common effects include temporary stinging, tingling, or mild irritation at the application site. The cream may cause a temporary whitening or bleaching effect on treated skin. Allergic reactions are rare. Hydrogen peroxide may bleach hair and fabrics, so avoid contact with eyebrows, hairline, and clothing. If significant irritation occurs, reduce to twice daily application or consult your pharmacist.
When should I use something stronger than Hydrogen Peroxide cream?
Hydrogen peroxide cream is suitable for localised, mild impetigo. You may need oral antibiotics instead if the impetigo is widespread, bullous (fluid-filled blisters), not improving after 2–3 days of topical treatment, or if you are systemically unwell. Return to the pharmacy for review if the infection is not improving, as the pharmacist may then supply oral antibiotics such as flucloxacillin or clarithromycin.
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