What is Hydrogen Peroxide 1% Cream?

Hydrogen peroxide 1% cream is a topical antiseptic treatment used for certain superficial skin infections. In adults, it can be used for localised non-bullous impetigo, where a cream is considered appropriate.

How does Hydrogen Peroxide 1% Cream work?

Hydrogen peroxide is active against many types of bacteria and works by damaging the cells of organisms causing the infection. When applied to the skin, it helps reduce the number of bacteria in the affected area and supports the infection clearing.

What is Hydrogen Peroxide 1% Cream used for on this page?

On this product page, hydrogen peroxide 1% cream is used specifically for:

- Localised non-bullous impetigo in adults

- Small, limited areas of crusted or weeping superficial bacterial skin infection where topical treatment is appropriate

It is not used here for:

- Widespread impetigo

- Bullous impetigo

- Deep or spreading skin infections

- Cellulitis or infections causing significant pain, swelling or fever

- Fungal rashes

- Viral skin infections

Who may be suitable for Hydrogen Peroxide 1% Cream?

You may be suitable if:

- You have a mild, localised area of impetigo

- The affected area is limited and suitable for a topical treatment

- You do not have red-flag symptoms suggesting a more serious infection

- You are able to apply a cream regularly and follow after-care advice

Points to consider before using it:

- How long the skin problem has been present

- Whether the area is small and localised or spreading

- Whether you have fever, increasing pain or feel unwell

- Any history of allergy or sensitivity to ingredients in skin products

Who should not use Hydrogen Peroxide 1% Cream or needs medical advice first?

Do not use without medical advice if you:

- Are allergic to hydrogen peroxide or any of the ingredients in the cream

- Have rapidly spreading infection

- Have fever, severe pain, facial swelling or feel generally unwell

- Have infection near the eyes, lips or inside the mouth

- Have a large area of broken skin or more widespread impetigo

- Are not sure whether the rash is actually impetigo

Use with caution and seek pharmacist or medical advice if you:

- Have repeated skin infections

- Have eczema, diabetes or reduced immunity

- Are pregnant or breastfeeding and want to check suitability

- Have symptoms that are not clearly due to localised impetigo

How do I use Hydrogen Peroxide 1% Cream?

Follow the directions supplied with the product unless a healthcare professional has advised otherwise.

Practical advice:

- Wash and dry your hands before and after use

- Gently clean and dry the affected area before applying the cream

- Apply only to the affected skin

- Do not share the cream with others

- If symptoms are not improving, seek further medical advice

General self-care advice

- Keep the area clean and dry

- Avoid scratching, picking or touching the affected skin

- Do not share towels, flannels, pillowcases or other personal items

- Wash hands regularly, especially after touching the affected area

- Wash pillowcases, face cloths and towels frequently while the infection is active

- Stay away from work or close-contact settings if advised until treatment has started and lesions are covered or improving

Side effects and when to get help

Common side effects can include mild burning or irritation after application. This is usually temporary.

Seek medical advice urgently if you develop severe irritation, worsening redness, swelling, blistering, rash, difficulty breathing, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.

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