Skin flare-ups can be uncomfortable, frustrating, and difficult to manage, especially when they appear suddenly and spread easily. Supporting the skin's natural healing process while maintaining proper hygiene is key to restoring comfort and confidence. Alongside appropriate care, many people look for gentle, effective impetigo remedies to help soothe irritation and support recovery. 

In this article, we'll explore natural approaches to promote healthy skin and speed up the healing process. 

What is Impetigo?

Infection of the skin by bacteria can cause a variety of different conditions, one of which is impetigo. Impetigo is caused by two types of bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes, more commonly known as "Staph" and "Strep". It is an extremely common childhood infection that can also affect adults, and is most frequently found on the face, arms and legs.

Causes of Impetigo

Although the actual cause of impetigo is infection with bacteria, there is usually some break in skin integrity that allows for the infection. The most common underlying causes of the skin break leading to impetigo are bites, injury or other skin rashes such as eczema or dermatitis. Be sure to thoroughly clean any new wounds to prevent infection.

Signs and Symptoms of Impetigo

The most common way that impetigo is diagnosed is by the presence of a golden yellow crust on the skin lesion that resembles dried honey. There are two types of impetigo, known as bullous (medical name for blisters) and non-bullous. The non-bullous type is more common and is often found on the face or extremities. It presents with small pustules on a reddened base of skin, which eventually burst and leave behind the characteristic crust. This type of impetigo can be caused by Staph or Strep bacteria. Bullous impetigo is almost exclusively caused by Staph, and can be found anywhere on the body. It causes weak blisters filled with clear yellow fluid that eventually rupture and leave behind the characteristic crust.

How To Reduce Spreading It

Although the rash usually starts in one place, it can easily spread to other areas with scratching. Because it is caused by an infection, it is important to avoid touching anything after touching infected areas. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after touching any lesions. In order to reduce the spread, it is important to wash sheets, pillowcases, and frequently touched surfaces. Cut fingernails short to prevent scratching of the lesions, and to prevent the bacteria from growing under the nails and being passed to other areas. In infants, baby mitts or socks are a great way to prevent them from scratching the areas so they can be allowed to heal.

Staph Carriers

In the medical community, some people are considered "Staph carriers". This means that they actually have a community of Staph permanently living in their nasal passages. This allows them to easily infect themselves or others on an ongoing basis. Antibiotic treatment does not seem to eliminate the Staph in carriers, and thus, good hygiene is essential in those with chronic impetigo.

Impetigo Treatment Options

Conventional treatment of impetigo involves antibiotic cream and, in more severe cases, oral antibiotics. In general, it is a good idea to keep the affected areas clean and to remove the characteristic crust and any fluid seeping from the area. 

Gently wash the skin several times a day (without scrubbing) using warm water and a gentle soap. Be sure to use a fresh towel to dry the area each time to prevent reinfection. It is preferable to allow the lesions to be exposed to the air as much as possible to keep them dry. 

Supporting the immune system is essential to help your body fight off the infection naturally. Please see below for a list of supplements that can aid the treatment of impetigo. Once the infection has begun to clear, it is also beneficial to ensure you are providing your body with the full spectrum of nutrients that it requires to both maintain and replace healthy skin.