Impetigo | Things to Know

Impetigo Information

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection which is highly contagious. The specific bacteria is Staphylococcus Aureus. Impetigo is most commonly found among children but athletes are also highly susceptible to this skin infection.

Impetigo infections arise when the bacteria enters the skin through cuts, abrasions or insect bites but in some cases, it can also affect healthy skin.

Symptoms of Impetigo:
Impetigo generally initially presents as red spots which eventually turn into blisters. The blisters will break open and expose an oozing fluid then drying into a yellow-brown crust. Impetigo sores are itchy and may also cause minor pain.
Though Impetigo can affect the skin anywhere, it generally appears on the face, head, hands and forearms.

Is Impetigo Contagious?
Impetigo is highly contagious and can be transmitted through contact or by sharing towels, sheets, clothing or other items that come in direct contact with the infected skin. Scratching can also spread the sores to other parts of the body. It is not common in most adults except the athletes participating in contact sports like MMA, Wrestling, and Rugby etc.

Prevention

Good hygiene helps prevent impetigo from spreading. Infected individuals should clean their skin and take showers regularly. Other members of the household should be vigilant about cleanliness, especially around areas of the skin that have cuts, scrapes, bug bites, eczema, and rashes. These areas should be kept covered to prevent bacterial contamination. Additionally, Impetigo sores with gauze and tape. All members of the household should wash their hands thoroughly with soap on a regular basis. Avoid contact with the infected person and his or her belongings. Another precaution is that any infected person should utilize his or her own towels for bathing and hand washing and separate bed linens. Use paper towels instead of cloth towels for hand drying if necessary.


Science has shown that athletes are susceptible to skin infections, so you need to maintain sanitary conditions for your skin continually. DermaFense products use the natural properties of essential oils found in nature to aid in your quest for cleanliness.