Impetigo natural treatment: what to know

Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection that often causes small sores, oozing, and yellow-brown crusts. Keeping the area clean and protected can reduce irritation and limit contact with the fluid, but household substances such as essential oils, vinegar, toothpaste, or strong antiseptics may inflame broken skin. A rash linked with eczema, including atopic dermatitis, can become infected and may need separate care. More detail about [Crusting Skin](/symptoms/skin-crusting/) can help you describe what you see.

Wash your hands before and after touching the area. Soften crusts with clean lukewarm water, cleanse gently, pat dry, and cover with a clean dressing if practical. Do not scratch, squeeze, or share towels, bedding, clothing, razors, or cosmetics. Wash used fabrics and keep fingernails short. Arrange an appointment because a clinician may recommend [Topical Antibiotic Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antibiotic-therapy/) or another treatment based on the number and location of lesions.

Seek prompt medical advice if sores are spreading, painful, extensive, repeatedly returning, or not settling with careful hygiene. Get urgent help for fever, marked swelling, rapidly worsening redness, unusual sleepiness, or involvement close to the eye. A clinician can decide whether [Antibiotics For Skin Infection](/treatments/medical-dermatology/antibiotic-therapy-for-skin-infection/) is needed and check for a deeper infection.

Ask whether the appearance fits impetigo or infected eczema, how to clean and cover the lesions, whether school or work contact should be limited, and what to do if a prescribed treatment causes irritation.