Impetigo on the lower lip

A break in the lip skin from dryness, licking, scratching, or a minor injury can let bacteria enter. The sore may sting or itch, and moisture around the mouth can soften crusts and make the area look larger. Cold sores and contact irritation can resemble impetigo, so a clinician may need to inspect the lesion, especially when blisters, repeated episodes, or significant pain are present.

Clean the skin gently and dry it without rubbing. Avoid licking, squeezing, shaving over, or peeling the crust. Wash hands after touching the lip, do not share cups, cutlery, lip products, towels, or toothbrushes, and launder items that touch the sore. Keep any prescribed cream away from the inside of the mouth unless specifically instructed. A clinician can choose topical or oral antibiotic therapy based on the extent and location of infection.

Seek prompt assessment if redness moves beyond the lip, swelling increases, eating or drinking becomes difficult, or the sore is spreading. Get urgent help for swelling affecting breathing or swallowing, fever with a rapidly worsening facial infection, or swelling near an eye. Recurrent lip sores also deserve review because their cause may differ.

Does this look like impetigo rather than a cold sore? Should I use a topical medicine or take an oral antibiotic? How should I protect the sore during meals and close contact?