What should you know about minor impetigo?

Impetigo affects the outer layers of skin and often begins around the nose or mouth, though it can occur elsewhere. Small blisters or open sores may break and leave golden or brown crusts; this is the pattern described as [Crusting Skin](/symptoms/skin-crusting/). Scratching can move infection to nearby skin, and close contact or shared towels can spread it to another person. Existing irritation, including [Atopic Dermatitis](/conditions/atopic-dermatitis/), can make the skin easier to infect.

Arrange a medical assessment because impetigo may need prescription treatment. Gently wash the area, pat it dry, cover sores with a clean dressing when practical, wash hands after touching the skin, and avoid sharing towels, clothing, cosmetics, or razors. Keep fingernails short and avoid picking crusts. A clinician may prescribe [Topical Antibiotic Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antibiotic-therapy/) for limited disease or [Antibiotics For Skin Infection](/treatments/medical-dermatology/antibiotic-therapy-for-skin-infection/) when infection is more extensive.

Seek prompt care if sores are spreading, becoming more painful, producing increasing discharge, or failing to improve with prescribed treatment. Get urgent advice for fever, marked swelling, rapidly expanding redness, severe illness, or sores near the eye. Babies, people with reduced immunity, and anyone with repeated episodes should be assessed promptly. Do not assume every crusted rash is impetigo; other skin conditions can look similar.

Does this look like impetigo or another crusted rash? Which areas should I cover, and when can I return to close contact? Do household members need advice, and how should I clean towels and clothing?