Impetigo is a common and highly contagious bacterial skin infection that can affect individuals of all ages, though it is most frequently observed in young children. This infection manifests as reddish sores that can quickly rupture, ooze fluid, and then form characteristic yellowish-brown crusts. While generally not considered serious, prompt and appropriate treatment is recommended to facilitate healing and prevent its spread.
Typical Healing Time with Treatment
With the initiation of antibiotic treatment, impetigo lesions typically show signs of improvement within 24 to 48 hours. The infection usually resolves completely within 7 to 10 days. This rapid response occurs with topical antibiotic creams (e.g., mupirocin, fusidic acid) for mild cases, or oral antibiotics for more widespread or severe infections. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics as directed, even if symptoms appear to clear sooner, to ensure the infection is fully eradicated and minimize recurrence risk.
Factors Affecting Recovery Duration
Several factors influence how long impetigo takes to resolve. The type of impetigo plays a role: non-bullous impetigo, which presents with crusted sores, is the most common form. Bullous impetigo involves larger, fluid-filled blisters that tend to affect the trunk. Both types generally heal without scarring, but the extent and severity of the infection directly impact recovery time. Larger or more widespread lesions may require a longer period to clear.
Starting treatment promptly can shorten the recovery period. Delaying treatment allows the infection to spread and potentially become more entrenched, leading to a prolonged course. Adherence to the prescribed antibiotic regimen is also important; not completing the full course can result in the infection lingering or reappearing. An individual’s overall immune response and general health status can also influence how quickly their body fights off the infection.
Signs of Healing and When to Seek Further Care
As impetigo heals, the crusts on the sores will begin to dry and flake off. The underlying skin will show reduced redness, and new, healthy skin will start to form. Scarring from impetigo is uncommon, especially if the lesions are not scratched. A temporary red mark may remain for a few days to several weeks before fading completely.
If impetigo does not show improvement after a few days of antibiotic treatment, or if symptoms worsen, consult a doctor again. Signs that warrant further medical attention include fever, rapid spreading of the sores, increased pain or swelling, or the appearance of new lesions. Untreated or persistent impetigo can lead to complications such as cellulitis (a deeper skin infection causing redness, warmth, and pain) or, rarely, kidney problems like post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.