Impetigo is one of the most common skin infections, especially in children. It’s highly contagious, uncomfortable, and spreads easily through close contact—whether that’s at school, home, or work. Thankfully, treatment is usually straightforward and now even more accessible thanks to the NHS Pharmacy First service.

At Luxtons Pharmacy, we regularly help patients manage impetigo quickly and effectively—without the need to visit a GP. In this blog, we’ll cover what impetigo is, what NHS treatment options are available, and how our Pharmacy First consultations can get you the care you need fast.

What Is Impetigo?

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that causes red sores or blisters, which burst and form golden-yellow crusts. It’s usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria and can develop after a cut, insect bite, or skin irritation—although it sometimes appears on otherwise healthy skin.

There are two main types:

• –> Non-bullous impetigo – the more common form, involving small blisters that rupture quickly and form a crust
• –> Bullous impetigo – less common, involving larger fluid-filled blisters that can remain intact for longer

While impetigo can affect anyone, it’s particularly common in babies, toddlers, and children of primary school age. Adults who are immunocompromised or work in healthcare, childcare, or close-contact settings can also be affected.

How Does Impetigo Spread?

Impetigo spreads easily and quickly through:

• –> Direct skin contact with an infected person
• –> Sharing towels, bedding, clothing, or toys
• –> Touching surfaces or objects that carry the bacteria

To reduce the risk of spreading impetigo:

• –> Keep the infected area covered with a clean, dry dressing
• –> Avoid touching or scratching the sores
• –> Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
• –> Do not share towels, flannels, or clothing
• –> Keep children off school or nursery until they are no longer contagious

The NHS advises that children remain at home until 48 hours after starting treatment or until all sores have dried and healed—whichever is sooner.

NHS Guidance On Treatment

Most cases of impetigo clear up within 7 to 10 days with treatment. The NHS recommends:

• –> Topical antibiotic creams, usually fusidic acid, applied to the affected area
• –> Oral antibiotics such as flucloxacillin or clarithromycin for more widespread or stubborn infections
• –> Cleaning the skin gently with warm soapy water before applying any medication

It’s important not to use over-the-counter antiseptic creams or lotions, as these are rarely effective against the bacteria responsible and may delay proper treatment.

What Is The Pharmacy First Service?

Pharmacy First is an NHS scheme that allows you to get expert advice and treatment for certain common conditions directly from your pharmacist—without needing a GP appointment. Impetigo is one of the conditions covered under this service.

At Luxtons Pharmacy, our trained team can assess your symptoms and, if appropriate, supply NHS-approved treatment under Pharmacy First. This not only saves you time but also helps ease pressure on local GP services.

Pharmacy First is particularly helpful if:

• –> You need fast access to treatment
• –> You are struggling to get a GP appointment
• –> You want face-to-face support and advice from a trained healthcare professional

Impetigo Treatment Through Pharmacy First

As part of our Pharmacy First service in Exeter, we can provide:

• –> A private consultation with one of our trained pharmacists
• –> An assessment of your symptoms and the affected skin
• –> NHS-approved treatments, including prescription-strength creams
• –> Guidance on hygiene and stopping the infection from spreading

This service is suitable for both adults and children aged 1 year and over, provided there are no complications or underlying skin conditions. If your symptoms require GP input, we’ll advise you on the next steps and refer you where appropriate.

When Should You See A GP?

While many cases of impetigo can be safely treated in the pharmacy, some may require a GP’s attention. You should contact your doctor if:

• –> The infection is widespread, severe, or worsening
• –> You or your child develop a fever or feel generally unwell
• –> The skin is hot, swollen, or painful
• –> You have repeated outbreaks of impetigo

GPs may prescribe a different course of antibiotics or investigate whether another condition is contributing to the issue.

Support From Luxtons Pharmacy

At Luxtons Pharmacy, we’re committed to making healthcare simple, fast, and effective. Through our Pharmacy First service, we offer quick access to NHS-approved treatment for conditions like impetigo—without the long wait for a GP.

Our experienced team provides:

• –> Discreet, in-store consultations
• –> Friendly, knowledgeable support
• –> Immediate access to suitable treatment
• –> Advice on how to manage symptoms and avoid spreading the infection

Book a Pharmacy First consultation online or contact us today for expert support, effective treatment, and peace of mind—right when you need it.

This blog was written on behalf of Luxtons Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.