What causes impetigo in adults?

Staphylococcus or Streptococcus bacteria can enter through a scratch, insect bite, shaving nick, cracked skin, or an existing rash. Atopic dermatitis and other itchy conditions can make this easier because scratching damages the skin barrier. Impetigo often produces fragile blisters or sores that ooze and form yellow-brown crusts. The infection can spread by touch, shared towels, or contact with fluid from a sore, so an adult may pass it on even when the original skin injury seemed minor.

Gently clean the affected skin, cover sores with a loose dressing, wash hands after touching the area, and avoid sharing towels, razors, clothing, or cosmetics. Do not pick crusts. A clinician may recommend topical antibiotic therapy for a small localised area or antibiotics for skin infection when lesions are more extensive, recurrent, or difficult to manage locally.

Arrange medical review for spreading sores, facial involvement near the eyes, increasing warmth or pain, fever, or swollen glands. Seek prompt care when a wound becomes rapidly more inflamed or when several household members develop lesions. People with diabetes or reduced immunity should seek advice early because infection may need closer follow-up.

Does this crusting skin fit impetigo or another condition? Which treatment should I use, and for how long? How can I protect family members? When can I return to work or close-contact activities?