Actinic Keratosis Treatment
Treatment for sun-damaged skin with Efudix Cream
Overview
Actinic keratosis (solar keratosis) is a precancerous skin condition caused by long-term sun damage. Gilbert & Johnson Pharmacy provides Efudix Cream for the treatment of actinic keratosis through our private prescribing service, with expert guidance on application and aftercare.
What is Actinic Keratosis?
Actinic keratosis (AK) develops from years of sun exposure. It appears as rough, scaly patches on sun-exposed skin like the face, scalp, ears, and hands. While not cancerous itself, untreated AK can develop into squamous cell carcinoma (a type of skin cancer). Early treatment with Efudix Cream can effectively remove these patches.
Signs & Symptoms
Rough Scaly Patches
Dry, rough patches that feel like sandpaper
Discolouration
Pink, red, or brown coloured patches on the skin
Crusty Lesions
Hard, wart-like growths on sun-exposed areas
Sun-Exposed Areas
Commonly found on face, scalp, ears, forearms, and backs of hands
How it works
Treatment with Efudix Cream
Efudix (fluorouracil) cream is a topical chemotherapy treatment that destroys abnormal skin cells while leaving healthy skin intact.
- Applied thinly to affected areas once or twice daily
- Treatment typically lasts 3-4 weeks
- Skin will become red and inflamed — this is expected and means the treatment is working
- The area heals over 4-8 weeks after stopping treatment
- Full instructions and aftercare advice provided
Who Can Use This Service?
- UK residents only
- Adults with a confirmed or suspected diagnosis of actinic keratosis
- Those who have been advised to use Efudix Cream by a healthcare professional
- Not pregnant or breastfeeding
- No known allergy to fluorouracil or other cream ingredients
Starting Price
From £34.99
Includes Efudix Cream prescription and professional pharmacist consultation with full treatment guidance.
Important Information
Efudix Cream contains fluorouracil, a topical chemotherapy agent. Do not use if pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Avoid sun exposure during treatment and use SPF 50+ afterwards. Wash hands thoroughly after application. Do not apply to broken skin, eyes, or mucous membranes.
When to See Your GP
See your GP if a patch changes significantly, bleeds, becomes an open sore that won't heal, or grows rapidly. These may be signs of skin cancer that require urgent specialist assessment. Efudix is for actinic keratosis only — do not use on suspected skin cancers.
Why Choose Our Actinic Keratosis Treatment?
- No GP appointment needed — private prescribing service
- Expert guidance on correct application technique
- Detailed aftercare advice for best results
- Discreet delivery to your door
- Ongoing support throughout your treatment course
What is included
Related Products
Browse treatments related to this service available in our online shop
Frequently asked questions
Typical treatment is 3-4 weeks of daily application. Your skin will become red and inflamed during treatment — this is normal. After stopping, healing takes 4-8 weeks. Full results are seen after the skin has completely healed.
Need support from our pharmacy team?
For more information, or to book an appointment, contact us and we will guide you to the right service.