How Do You Know If You Have Impetigo?
Impetigo is a common and highly contagious skin infection that mainly affects young children, although adults can also develop it.
The condition is usually caused by bacteria entering broken or irritated skin. Impetigo often appears around the nose, mouth, hands or other exposed areas of the body.
Recognising impetigo symptoms early may help reduce the spread of infection and support quicker treatment.
In many cases, impetigo begins with small sores or patches that can easily be mistaken for other skin conditions during the early stages.
At Sands Chemists, we regularly support patients seeking advice on common skin infections, symptom management and when further medical assessment may be needed.
What Does Impetigo Look Like?
Impetigo usually starts as red sores, blisters or irritated patches of skin that quickly develop a distinctive crust.
The infection often causes golden yellow or honey coloured crusts, which are considered one of the most recognisable signs of impetigo.
Common impetigo symptoms include:
- Red sores or patches
- Fluid filled blisters
- Honey coloured crusting
- Itchy or sore skin
- Skin that appears cracked or inflamed
- Rapid spreading around the affected area
The face is commonly affected, especially around the nose and mouth, although impetigo can develop anywhere on the body.
What Are the Early Signs of Impetigo?
The early signs of impetigo often begin with mild skin irritation or small red patches before crusting develops.
In the early stages, the rash may appear minor and can sometimes resemble eczema, insect bites or other skin conditions.
Early mild impetigo symptoms may include:
- Small red spots or sores
- Mild itching
- Sensitive or irritated skin
- Tiny blisters that burst easily
- Areas of weeping or oozing skin
As the infection develops, crusting usually becomes more noticeable.
How Does Impetigo Spread?
Impetigo spreads very easily through close contact and contaminated items.
The infection can pass from person to person through touching affected skin or sharing items such as towels, bedding or clothing.
Children are more likely to develop impetigo because infections can spread quickly in nurseries, schools and other group settings.
The risk of spreading infection may increase when:
- Skin is scratched frequently
- Hands are not washed regularly
- Personal items are shared
- Existing skin conditions damage the skin barrier
Good hygiene habits may help reduce transmission.
Is Impetigo Common in Children?
Yes, impetigo is particularly common in children.
Young children are more likely to develop impetigo because they often have close physical contact with others and may scratch irritated skin.
Impetigo in children may appear:
- Around the mouth or nose
- On the hands or arms
- Near cuts, grazes or insect bites
- Around areas affected by eczema
Parents should seek advice if symptoms worsen, spread quickly or the child appears unwell.
When Should You Speak to a Pharmacist or GP?
You should seek professional advice if you suspect impetigo, especially if symptoms are spreading or not improving.
Prompt treatment may help reduce discomfort and lower the risk of passing the infection to others.
Speak to a pharmacist or GP if you experience:
- Crusting or blistering skin lesions
- Rapidly spreading sores
- Painful or swollen skin
- Fever or feeling unwell
- Symptoms near the eyes
- Recurrent skin infections
Some people may require prescription treatment depending on the severity and location of the infection.
Protecting Your Skin Health With Expert Support
Recognising impetigo symptoms early can help reduce the spread of infection and support timely treatment. If you are unsure whether a rash or skin irritation may be impetigo, speaking with a trained pharmacist can provide reassurance and practical guidance.
At Sands Chemists, our pharmacy team can offer personalised advice on skin infections, symptom management and when further medical treatment may be appropriate. If you are concerned about impetigo symptoms in yourself or your child, you can book an appointment with our team for professional support tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What are the first signs of impetigo?
The first signs of impetigo often include small red sores, itchy patches or blisters that later develop honey coloured crusts.
What does mild impetigo look like?
Mild impetigo may appear as small red patches or tiny blisters with mild irritation before crusting develops.
Is impetigo contagious?
Yes. Impetigo is highly contagious and can spread through close contact or shared items such as towels and bedding.
Can adults get impetigo?
Yes. Although impetigo is more common in children, adults can also develop the infection.
Should children stay home with impetigo?
Children with impetigo may need to stay away from school or nursery until treatment has started and the risk of spreading infection has reduced. Parents should follow NHS or GP advice.
When should I seek medical advice for impetigo?
You should seek advice if symptoms spread quickly, involve swelling or fever, affect the eyes or fail to improve.