Treatment for Impetigo on the Face

Impetigo can begin in irritated or broken skin and spread through contact. Facial lesions may ooze and form golden or brown crusts; some people also notice tenderness or itching. Atopic dermatitis can leave the skin barrier vulnerable, but a crusted area should not be assumed to be eczema alone. A clinician can decide whether the appearance fits impetigo and whether nearby areas are involved.

Wash hands before and after touching the area. Clean gently with lukewarm water, soften crusts without picking, and pat dry. Use a prescribed topical antibiotic exactly as directed; more extensive or spreading infection may need antibiotic therapy for skin infection taken by mouth. Do not share towels, cosmetics, pillows, or razors, and keep nails short. Avoid applying steroid or combination creams unless a clinician has advised them for this infection.

Arrange prompt medical review for sores near the eye, rapidly spreading redness, swelling, increasing pain, fever, or a child who appears unwell. Seek urgent care if eye movement is painful, vision changes, or swelling makes the eye difficult to open. Recurrent lesions also need assessment for an ongoing skin barrier problem or another diagnosis.

Ask whether the facial changes are impetigo, which treatment is appropriate, and how to protect household members from contact spread. Ask when the person can return to school or work and what to do if the skin worsens.