How Common Is Crusting Skin in Impetigo?

Impetigo can begin with red, irritated spots, tiny blisters, or shallow open sores. As the surface fluid dries, it can leave a yellowish or honey-coloured crust. Several spots may join together, especially around the nose and mouth, but impetigo can affect other exposed areas. Crusting shows that material has dried; it does not by itself show how deep the infection is.

Because the sores can spread bacteria to nearby skin and other people, avoid picking or peeling the crust. A clinician may distinguish impetigo from eczema, contact irritation, or another cause of crusting by examining the area and asking how it began.

Gently wash the affected skin with lukewarm water and mild cleanser, then pat it dry. Wash your hands after touching the area, keep fingernails short, and avoid sharing towels, pillowcases, clothing, or cosmetics. Do not squeeze sores or apply leftover antibiotics, steroid creams, or household products unless a clinician has advised them. Arrange medical advice because treatment may be recommended to clear the infection and reduce spread.

Seek prompt medical advice if the redness is expanding, pain or swelling is increasing, fever develops, or the eye area is involved. Get urgent help for marked facial swelling, vision changes, severe illness, or rapidly worsening skin. A clinician should also review crusting that keeps returning, affects a young infant, or does not improve with the advised care.

Could this crusting be impetigo or another skin problem? Does the location require a particular treatment? How should I clean and cover the sores, and when can I return to close-contact activities?