Imiquimod before and after: preparing and recovering

Before treatment, the clinician should confirm the diagnosis, mark the area and explain the application schedule. After application begins, treated skin may become red, swollen, scaly, crusted or tender. Once the course ends, irritation may take time to settle and the surface can look different as it heals. These changes do not replace a clinical examination, especially when imiquimod is being used for a precancerous patch or skin cancer.

Use mild cleansing and pat the area dry. Apply only the prescribed amount and wash your hands afterwards. When the course is complete, protect healing skin from sun and friction, and use only products approved by the treating team. Do not peel crusts, scratch, wax or resume irritating cosmetics while the area is sore. Take a photo for your own record if helpful, but keep the scheduled review even when the skin appears clear.

Ask for advice if the reaction is worsening after you have stopped, the area repeatedly bleeds, discharge develops, or pain prevents ordinary activities. Seek urgent help for facial or throat swelling, breathing difficulty, extensive blistering, faintness or fever with spreading redness.

Ask when you may restart normal skincare, exercise, shaving or makeup; which moisturiser is suitable; how long healing may take; and how the clinic will check the result. Tell them about any persistent spot, ulcer or new change after the course.