The golden-brown crust of a common but contagious skin infection

Science · Published 24 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Impetigo is more than just a minor skin irritation; it is a highly infectious bacterial condition that can spread rapidly across the body. While often non-serious, its distinct appearance and ability to recur necessitate a precise understanding of its clinical presentation and treatment protocols.

Impetigo typically manifests as red sores or blisters that quickly burst, leaving behind characteristic golden-brown crusty patches. These patches can resemble cornflakes stuck to the skin and may spread to other areas of the body. Because redness can be difficult to see on brown or black skin, visual identification requires careful observation. The infection commonly targets the face—specifically around the nose and mouth—and the hands. The infection is primarily caused by staphylococcal and streptococcal bacteria. These pathogens create a superficial bacterial skin infection.

A specific variation known as bullous impetigo occurs when yellow liquid oozes from blisters and hardens into a scaly border around a scab. While it is often not serious, it can be confused with other conditions such as cold sores (blisters on lips), atopic eczema (itchy, dry skin), or even shingles and chickenpox. Because of its high infectivity, patients are advised to contact healthcare providers before visiting clinics in person to prevent transmission. Patients should seek urgent medical attention if symptoms worsen after starting treatment. It is also important to consult a professional if the condition has returned within the past year.

Treatment strategies depend on the severity of the infection and the patient's health status. Pharmacists can often prescribe hydrogen peroxide cream or antibiotic creams for standard cases. However, babies under 12 months old, breastfeeding mothers with sores on their breasts, individuals with weakened immune systems (such as those undergoing chemotherapy), or those with recurring infections may require oral antibiotic tablets. For persistent cases, clinicians may perform swabs of the skin or inside the nose to identify specific bacteria and prescribe antiseptic body washes or nasal ointments. It is vital to complete the entire course of prescribed medication even if the skin begins to heal early. This ensures that all bacteria are fully eradicated from the body.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

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