The pharmacist explained everything clearly and showed me how to apply the cream. My son felt calmer and the rash settled quickly.
Impetigo in Ealing
Get rapid advice and, where appropriate, treatment for impetigo at South Ealing Pharmacy. Friendly local care in West London.
- Fast same day access
- No GP appointment
- Support for children

What impetigo looks like
Impetigo is a contagious skin infection. It causes small blisters, redness and golden crusts. It often appears around the nose and mouth. You can visit us for advice and care if you are aged one or over. We serve South Ealing, Ealing, Acton, Hanwell and Brentford. Walk in or book ahead.
We will ask about your symptoms and examine the skin. We check if the rash is local or widespread. We also check for fever, pain or signs you may need a different plan.
Many mild cases respond to skin treatments. Localised non bullous impetigo often improves with an antiseptic or a topical antibiotic when suitable. More extensive infection may need antibiotic tablets. We explain options clearly before treatment.
To limit spread, avoid touching sores and keep nails short. Wash hands often with soap and water. Use separate towels and flannels. Wash bedding and clothing at a warm setting. Clean toys if children have been infected.
Keep children off school or nursery until they are no longer contagious. That is usually after forty eight hours of antibiotic treatment or when the sores have dried and healed. Adults should avoid work that involves skin contact until they are no longer contagious. Come back if the rash spreads, you feel unwell or the skin becomes very painful. Tell us if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have allergies. We will guide you safely and refer if needed.
When treatment is offered
For localised impetigo, we may offer skin treatment after assessment. This could be an antiseptic or an antibiotic cream when appropriate. Widespread infection or repeated episodes may need tablets and follow up.
- We check your eligibility and medical history
- We explain benefits and side effects in plain language
- We agree a plan and show you how to apply treatment
- We advise when to seek further help and when to return
Self care and prevention
Good hygiene is key. It reduces spread at home, school and work. Simple steps protect family and friends across West London.
- Wash hands often and avoid scratching
- Gently cleanse the skin and pat dry
- Do not share towels, bedding or razors
- Cover sores with a loose dressing if advised


Your local pharmacy team
South Ealing Pharmacy is a community pharmacy and trusted healthcare partner. For over a decade we have delivered personal, professional care from the same shop on South Ealing Road: prescription dispensing including electronic repeats, travel vaccinations, general immunisations, private health checks, and a collection and delivery service.
Whether you need everyday advice or a specific treatment, you can walk in and talk to a pharmacist, or book a clinic appointment online in about a minute.
What our patients say
They noticed it early and saved a longer flare. The care was professional and friendly. Thank you South Ealing Pharmacy.
Efficient and kind. I was seen the same afternoon and got clear advice to stop it spreading at home. Great local service.
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know before you visit.
Speak to our friendly pharmacy team, we are happy to help, no appointment needed.
Call 020 8560 3532Contact usYes, for people aged one and over after an assessment. If it is not suitable for pharmacy treatment we will direct you to the right service.
Impetigo spreads easily by skin contact or shared items. Good handwashing and separate towels reduce the risk to others.
Keep them off until sores have crusted and healed or for forty eight hours after starting antibiotics. This helps stop outbreaks.
Mild localised cases may use an antiseptic or a topical antibiotic. More severe or widespread cases may need antibiotic tablets.
Wash with soap and water and dry gently. Do not share towels or bedding and wash these at a warm setting.
Babies under one year need a different pathway. We will advise where to get the right care for them.
If you feel very unwell, the rash spreads quickly or pain is severe, seek further help. We will advise the safest next step.
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Read moreCome and see us
186 South Ealing Road, London W5 4RJ
2 min walk from South Ealing station (Piccadilly line) ยท free parking nearby
Opening hours
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