Skin and Nails

Acne can be influenced by several factors, including:

• Hormonal changes (common during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy)
• Excess oil (sebum) production
• Blocked pores
• Bacterial growth on the skin
• Genetics
• Certain medicines or skincare products

Acne is not caused by poor hygiene, although gentle cleansing can help manage symptoms.

There are several UK‑licensed treatments that may help manage acne. The appropriate option depends on the type and severity of your symptoms.

Topical treatments (applied to the skin)

These may include ingredients such as:

• Benzoyl peroxide
• Retinoids (e.g., adapalene)
• Topical antibiotics (available on prescription)
• Azelaic acid

These treatments help reduce inflammation, unblock pores, and limit bacterial growth. Treatment outcomes can vary between individuals, and improvement may take several weeks.

Oral treatments (prescription‑only)

For moderate to severe acne, a prescriber may recommend:

• Oral antibiotics
• Hormonal treatments (for some individuals)
• Other prescription‑only medicines, depending on clinical suitability

A UK‑registered prescriber will review your consultation to determine whether a treatment is appropriate and safe.

• Not all treatments are suitable for everyone
• Some acne medicines can cause skin irritation, dryness, or sensitivity to sunlight
• Certain treatments must not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Always read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) before use
• Use treatments exactly as directed by a healthcare professional

1. Complete a confidential online consultation
   Your answers are reviewed by a UK‑registered prescriber.
2. Treatment recommendations
   If appropriate, treatment options will be recommended to you
3. Fast, discreet delivery
   Medicines are dispensed by our GPhC‑registered pharmacy and delivered in plain, secure packaging.

We may contact you if further information is required.

You should speak to a GP or healthcare professional if:

• Your acne is severe, painful, or leaving scars
• Over‑the‑counter treatments have not helped after several weeks
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need treatment advice
• You experience side effects from acne medication
• You have concerns about your skin or overall health

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a widespread rash.

Acne is a very common condition, and many people find that a combination of consistent skincare, lifestyle changes, and medical treatment can help improve symptoms over time. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, our pharmacy team can provide general guidance.

Our registered pharmacists can provide advice on pharmacy treatments for acne. Book an online consultation with us.

Online consultations are not suitable for all conditions. In some cases, we may advise you to see your GP or another healthcare professional for a face-to-face assessment.

Hirsutism can be influenced by several factors, including:

• Hormonal changes, such as increased androgen levels
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Genetics or family history
• Certain medicines
• Natural variations in hair growth patterns

A clinical assessment helps determine whether treatment is appropriate and whether further investigation is needed.

A prescriber may consider licensed treatment options where appropriate, following a clinical assessment.

Eflornithine Cream (Prescription‑Only Medicine)

Eflornithine cream is a topical treatment licensed in the UK to help slow the growth of unwanted facial hair. It is applied to affected areas and may help reduce the rate of hair growth over time. Availability of this treatment may vary in the UK.

Common side effects may include skin irritation, redness, or acne.

• Eflornithine cream is not suitable for everyone
• It may take several weeks of consistent use to see an effect
• A UK‑registered prescriber will review your consultation to ensure the treatment is appropriate
• Always read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) before use

Treatment should be used exactly as directed by a healthcare professional.

Some people may also choose to combine medical treatment with cosmetic hair‑removal methods such as threading, waxing, or laser treatment.

1. Complete a confidential online consultation
   Your answers are reviewed by a UK‑registered prescriber.
2. Select your treatment
   If suitable, a prescription will be issued.
3. Fast, discreet delivery
   Medicines are dispensed by our GPhC‑registered pharmacy and delivered in plain, secure packaging.

We may contact you if further information is required.

You should speak to a GP or healthcare professional if:

• Excess hair growth appears suddenly or worsens quickly
• You have symptoms such as irregular periods, acne, or weight changes
• You are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding (treatment may not be suitable)
• You experience side effects from treatment
• You are unsure whether treatment is suitable for you
• You develop symptoms such as a deepening voice or increased muscle mass

If you develop severe skin irritation, swelling, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention promptly.

Excess facial hair is a common concern, and many people find that a combination of medical treatment and cosmetic approaches helps them manage symptoms effectively. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, our pharmacy team can provide general guidance.

Our pharmacy team can provide general information and support on excess facial hair. Request an online consultation if you would like to explore suitable options.

Online consultations may not be suitable for all conditions, and in some cases, a face-to-face assessment may be required.

• Patches of skin that appear red, darker, or otherwise discoloured
• Areas that feel itchy or look scaly, sometimes with a fine, dry‑skin‑like flaking
• Sore patches that may include small spots filled with pus

Fungal infections develop when fungi multiply on the skin’s surface. Common causes and contributing factors include:

• Warm, humid environments
• Sweating or tight clothing
• Shared towels, clothing, or sports equipment
• Weakened immune system
• Minor skin damage or irritation

Common types of fungal skin infections include:

• Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis)
• Ringworm (tinea corporis)
• Jock itch (tinea cruris)
• Fungal nail infections
• Yeast infections such as thrush

A clinical assessment helps determine the most appropriate treatment.

There are several UK‑licensed antifungal treatments that may help to treat fungal infections. The right option depends on the type and location of the infection.

Treatment recommendations are based on clinical suitability and UK prescribing guidelines.

Some treatments may be available following a clinical assessment through our UK-registered pharmacy. Treatment is only supplied where it is safe and clinically appropriate, and not all options are suitable for every patient. Some treatments may not be suitable for children, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.

Topical skin treatments:

• Clotrimazole
• Miconazole
• Terbinafine
• Ketoconazole

Nail treatments:

Amorolfine (for fungal nail infections only)

Oral Antifungal Medicines (prescription‑only)

For more persistent or widespread infections, a prescriber may recommend oral antifungal medicines. These are only supplied when clinically appropriate.

• Not all treatments are suitable for everyone
• Some antifungal medicines may interact with other medications
• A UK‑registered prescriber will review your consultation before prescribing
• Always read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) before use
• Use treatments exactly as directed by a healthcare professional

1. Complete a confidential online consultation
   Your answers are reviewed by a UK‑registered prescriber.
2. Select your treatment
   If suitable, a prescription will be issued.
3. Fast, discreet delivery
   Medicines are dispensed by our GPhC‑registered pharmacy and delivered in plain, secure packaging.

We may contact you if further information is required.

You should speak to a GP or healthcare professional if:

• Your symptoms are severe or spreading
• Over‑the‑counter treatments have not improved symptoms after several weeks
• You have a weakened immune system
• The infection is on your scalp or face
• You experience side effects from treatment
• You are unsure whether your symptoms are caused by a fungal infection
• The area is painful, swollen, or producing discharge
• You have diabetes
• The infection is recurrent or not responding to previous treatment

Seek urgent medical attention if you develop signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or widespread rash.

• Clean the affected skin gently each day.
• Make sure you dry the area thoroughly after washing, especially in skin folds and between the toes.
• Choose loose‑fitting clothing made from cotton or other breathable fabrics.
• If the infection affects your toenails, keep your feet dry and trim your nails regularly.
• Wear breathable, well‑fitting footwear and cotton socks, changing them daily. Consider replacing older shoes that may still carry fungal spores.
• Wash clothing, bedding, and towels frequently.
• Try to avoid scratching the affected area, as this can spread the infection to other parts of the body.

Fungal skin infections are common and usually respond well to appropriate treatment. Keeping the affected area clean and dry, avoiding shared personal items, and completing the full course of treatment can help prevent recurrence. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, our pharmacy team can provide general guidance.

Online consultations are not suitable for all conditions. If your symptoms are unclear or suggest a more serious condition, we may advise an in-person assessment.

Hives occur when the body releases histamine and other chemicals into the skin, often in response to a trigger. Common causes include:

• Allergies, such as reactions to foods, insect stings, or medications
• Infections, including viral illnesses
• Heat, cold, or sunlight
• Pressure on the skin
• Stress or emotional factors
• Exercise or sweating
• Unknown causes (idiopathic urticaria)

If symptoms persist for more than 6 weeks, this may be chronic urticaria and requires medical assessment.

A clinical assessment helps determine whether treatment is appropriate and whether further investigation is needed.

Hives may appear as:

• Raised, red or skin‑coloured welts
• Itchy patches that may sting or feel warm
• Areas that change shape, move around, or fade and reappear
• Small individual bumps or larger patches that join together

Symptoms can last minutes, hours, or longer depending on the cause.

There are several UK‑licensed treatments that may help relieve symptoms of hives.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are commonly used to help reduce itching and swelling. Options include:

• Non‑drowsy antihistamines (often recommended first)
• Sedating antihistamines (may be used at night if appropriate)

Examples include cetirizine, loratadine, or fexofenadine.

Sedating antihistamines may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.

A UK‑registered prescriber will review your consultation to ensure the treatment is suitable.

Other measures

Some people find relief through:

• Cool compresses
• Avoiding known triggers
• Wearing loose, breathable clothing

• Not all treatments are suitable for everyone
• Some antihistamines may cause drowsiness or interact with other medicines
• Always read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) before use
• Use treatments exactly as directed by a healthcare professional
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not start treatment without advice from a healthcare professional.

1. Complete a confidential online consultation
   Your answers are reviewed by a UK‑registered prescriber.
2. Treatment recommendations
   If clinically appropriate, a prescription may be issued. In some cases, treatment may not be supplied.
3. Fast, discreet delivery
   Medicines are dispensed by our GPhC‑registered pharmacy and delivered in plain, secure packaging.

We may contact you if further information is required.

You should speak to a GP or healthcare professional if:

• Your symptoms last longer than a few days
• Hives keep returning
• You have swelling of the lips, eyes, or face
• Over‑the‑counter treatments have not helped
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need treatment advice
• You experience side effects from medication

Seek urgent medical attention if you develop:

• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the tongue or throat
• Dizziness or faintness

These may be signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Hives are common and often settle with simple treatment and avoidance of triggers. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, our pharmacy team can provide general guidance.

Looking for advice on treating hives? Book a free online consultation with us.

Online consultations are not suitable for all conditions. If your symptoms are complex or unclear, we may advise you to seek in-person care.

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. It often appears as:

• Red sores or blisters
• Honey‑coloured crusts
• Itchy or irritated skin
• Patches that spread easily

It most commonly affects the face, around the mouth and nose, but can appear anywhere on the body.

There are two main types: non-bullous (more common) and bullous impetigo.

Impetigo is caused by bacteria entering the skin, most commonly:

• Staphylococcus aureus
• Streptococcus pyogenes

These bacteria are widespread in the environment and often live harmlessly on the skin or inside the nose. Impetigo develops when bacteria enter the skin through even very small breaks.

Impetigo usually occurs when the skin’s natural barrier is disrupted. This can happen due to:

• Minor cuts or grazes
• Insect bites
• Eczema or dermatitis
• Areas of dry, cracked skin
• Existing skin irritation (e.g., around the nose during a cold)

Once the bacteria enter, they multiply on the skin’s surface and cause the characteristic sores and crusts.

Impetigo is highly contagious, especially in children. It can spread through:

• Direct skin‑to‑skin contact
• Sharing towels, bedding, or clothing
• Touching infected areas and then touching other parts of the body

Good hygiene and early treatment help reduce the risk of passing it on. Impetigo remains contagious until treatment has started or lesions have crusted over.

You should seek medical advice if:

• You suspect impetigo for the first time
• Symptoms are spreading or worsening
• You have recurrent episodes
• You or your child feels unwell (e.g., fever)
• The infection does not improve after treatment

If symptoms are severe, widespread, or affecting infants, contact NHS 111 or your GP.

Seek urgent medical attention if:

• The infection is rapidly spreading
• There is swelling of the face or around the eyes
• You feel significantly unwell
• A baby under 1 year is affected

Treatment depends on the severity and location of the infection. A prescriber will determine the most appropriate option. The choice of treatment will be based on a clinical assessment in line with UK guidelines.

Topical antibiotic treatments

Often used for small, localised patches of impetigo. These may include prescription‑only topical antibiotics. These medicines can only be supplied following a clinical assessment.

Oral antibiotic treatments

Used when impetigo is widespread, recurrent, or not responding to topical treatment. Oral antibiotics require a prescription and are supplied only if clinically appropriate.

We do not supply antibiotics without a valid prescription or clinical review. Antibiotics are only prescribed when clinically necessary to help reduce antimicrobial resistance.

These steps can help reduce discomfort and prevent the infection from spreading:

• Gently wash affected areas with warm water
• Avoid touching or scratching the sores
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
• Keep sores covered with loose, non‑stick dressings
• Do not share towels, bedding, or clothing
• Use separate towels and wash items at a high temperature
• Children should stay out of school or nursery until 48 hours after starting treatment, or until lesions have crusted over.

1. Complete a short online consultation
   Your answers help our prescribers assess your symptoms safely.
2. Clinical review by a UK‑registered prescriber
   If treatment is suitable, a prescription will be issued.
3. Dispensing by our GPhC‑registered pharmacy, if appropriate
   Medicines are dispensed and delivered discreetly to your door.
4. Ongoing support
   Our pharmacy team is available for advice before and after treatment.

Some cases of impetigo require in-person assessment. If your symptoms are severe, involve the eyes, or affect a young infant, we may refer you to your GP or urgent care service.

• Always use medicines exactly as prescribed.
• Do not use leftover antibiotics or share medication with others.
• If symptoms worsen, spread rapidly, or do not improve after treatment, seek medical advice promptly.
• This service is not a substitute for emergency care.

Our UK‑registered pharmacists are available to answer questions about impetigo treatment, medication use, and general skin‑care advice.

You can request an online consultation if you would like a clinical assessment.