What should you know about impetigo on the lip?

Impetigo near the lip can begin as a red spot or blister and then leave a sticky yellow-brown crust. Saliva, lip licking, chapping, and repeated touching can irritate the skin and make spread easier. A crust at the lip is not specific to one condition; a clinician may distinguish impetigo from cold sores, contact irritation, or [Atopic Dermatitis](/conditions/atopic-dermatitis/). Do not put non-prescribed products inside the mouth.

Wash hands before and after touching the area. Clean the outer lip gently with water and mild cleanser, pat dry, and avoid picking or licking the sore. Do not share cups, cutlery, towels, lip products, or razors. Keep the sore covered only if a dressing can stay clean and does not interfere with eating or breathing. A clinician can advise whether [Topical Antibiotic Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antibiotic-therapy/) or [Antibiotics For Skin Infection](/treatments/medical-dermatology/antibiotic-therapy-for-skin-infection/) is appropriate.

Arrange prompt assessment if the sore is spreading, recurrent, close to the nostril, or difficult to keep clean. Seek urgent help for swelling that affects drinking or breathing, eye involvement, rapidly spreading redness, fever, severe pain, or a person who appears very unwell. A child with a new crusted lip lesion should be assessed if the diagnosis is uncertain.

Ask whether the lesion is on the skin or inside the mouth, whether testing is needed, how to manage eating and brushing teeth, and how to limit spread at home.