How do I manage my impetigo on a daily basis?

If you have impetigo, your doctor may prescribe a skin ointment containing an antibiotic. Antibiotics are medications that kill bacteria, which cause impetigo. Follow all instructions from your doctor or pharmacist when applying the ointment. In some cases, doctors prescribe antibiotic pills for treating impetigo. If so, take these medications exactly as instructed.

Gently wash skin affected by impetigo with clean gauze and antiseptic soap every day. Your doctor may instruct you to remove any crusts that form on the skin. If so, follow his or her instructions closely. Cover impetigo sores with clean gauze or bandages. Resist the temptation to scratch impetigo sores, which can cause them to spread.

Managing your impetigo is made easy by keeping clean and following your doctor's orders. Impetigo is spread by contact and moves either from one part of the body to another or from one person to another. This makes it important to wash your hands and body often and to wear gloves when applying medicine to your sores. The bacteria can be transferred through your clothes and other linens, so avoid sharing these things with others, and launder them every day. Above all, follow your doctor's instructions and complete the course of medicine prescribed.