Skin condition
Impetigo
Impetigo is contagious and often treatable, but it should not be ignored if it is spreading or painful.
What's actually going on
Impetigo is a superficial bacterial skin infection that often forms honey-colored crusts, weeping areas, or fragile blisters. It can start after a scratch, eczema flare, insect bite, or close contact with someone infected.
What tends to help
- Early recognition and hygiene precautions
- Avoiding picking or sharing towels
- Prescription topical or oral antibiotics when appropriate
- Checking whether there is a deeper infection or another rash underneath
What I'd skip
- Covering it with heavy balms and hoping it passes
- Using leftover antibiotics without a diagnosis
- Continuing close-contact sports during active contagious lesions
When to get in-person or urgent care
- Fever, rapidly spreading redness, significant swelling, severe pain, or red streaking
- Involvement around the eyes
- Very young children or immunosuppressed patients with worsening symptoms
Crusted or weeping sores?
Start a visit if symptoms are mild and you are stable. Dr. Eckert can review photos and decide whether online treatment is appropriate or whether in-person care is safer.
Start a visitSupportive basics
These are supportive products and categories that may fit a simple routine. They are not a substitute for medical evaluation and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent this condition.
Gentle Cleanser
Fragrance-free and non-stripping. Cleanses without the tight, squeaky feeling.
Daily Moisturizer
Quiet, comfortable hydration made for sensitive, reactive skin.