Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the skin that causes red sores and blisters. The two types of bacteria mainly responsible are Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. Impetigo typically affects children and infants, especially in warm, humid weather.
The bacteria enter through breaks in the skin, so impetigo often appears around the nose and mouth, as well as insect bites or other skin injuries. Scratching infected areas can spread the infection to other parts of the body. Impetigo is spread by direct contact with infected skin or contaminated items like towels, clothes, and toys.
To prevent impetigo, practice good hygiene like hand washing, keeping nails trimmed, and sterilizing shared items. Treat any skin injuries promptly and keep them clean and covered until healed.
Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Impetigo Flare-Ups
To prevent future impetigo flare-ups, make some important lifestyle changes.
- Practice good hygiene like washing your hands frequently, especially after touching infected skin. Hand washing is the best way to avoid spreading the infection to others or re-infecting yourself.
- Keep your skin clean and moisturized. Take regular showers or baths and use a mild cleanser. Moisturize daily with a fragrance-free cream or ointment to keep skin hydrated and promote healing. Dry, cracked skin provides an easy entry point for bacteria.
- Wear loose, breathable clothing that won’t irritate the skin. Tight-fitting synthetic fabrics can trap heat and moisture against the skin, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. Loose, cotton clothing will keep you more comfortable during treatment.
- Do not share personal items like towels, washcloths, clothing, or athletic equipment with others. Impetigo is highly contagious, and these items may harbor bacteria that can re-infect you or spread to others.
- Avoid excessive sun or heat exposure which can further dry and damage the skin. Too much sun or heat can slow down healing and increase itching.
- Get extra rest to allow your body to heal. Lack of sleep can weaken your immune system making you more susceptible to bacterial infections and slowing the healing process.
- Consider using over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to help with inflammation and itching. Anti-itch creams containing calamine lotion, menthol, camphor or diphenhydramine can also provide relief from discomfort during treatment.
By taking good care of your skin, practicing healthy hygiene, and making a few simple lifestyle changes, you can speed healing and avoid recurring bouts of impetigo. Staying vigilant about prevention and knowing the signs of infection can help keep this skin condition at bay.
Top 5 Natural Antibacterial Agents for Impetigo
Some of the most potent natural antibiotics for impetigo are:
1. Garlic
Garlic has powerful antibacterial properties and can help fight the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria that causes impetigo. Apply crushed raw garlic directly to the affected area 3 times a day. The garlic may sting a bit, but it will help clear up the infection. You can also make a garlic oil by steeping minced garlic in olive oil for several days. Use a clean dropper to apply the oil directly to the sores.
2. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic that can help reduce inflammation and fight infection. Dilute 2-3 drops of tea tree essential oil in 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or olive oil. Gently apply the oil to the impetigo sores 3 times a day with a cotton swab. The tea tree oil may cause skin irritation for some, so do a patch test on healthy skin first and never use undiluted.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric has antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties due to the compound curcumin. Make a turmeric paste by mixing 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder and enough water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste directly to the impetigo lesions 3 times a day. Rinse off after 30 minutes. The turmeric can stain the skin yellow but will fade once you stop using it.
4. Manuka Honey
Manuka honey is a potent natural antibiotic. Apply medical-grade manuka honey directly to the impetigo sores 3-4 times a day. The honey helps reduce inflammation, fight infection, and promote healing. Cover the area with a bandage after applying. Manuka honey with a UMF rating of at least 10+ is most effective for treating impetigo.
5. Colloidal Silver
Colloidal silver consists of tiny silver particles suspended in liquid and has strong antibacterial properties. Apply colloidal silver gel, cream or liquid directly to the impetigo lesions 3-4 times a day as directed. Colloidal silver helps eliminate bacteria and promote healing. You can find colloidal silver products online or in health food stores.
In addition to these natural antibacterial agents, keeping the affected area clean, avoiding scratching, and wearing loose breathable clothing can help speed healing and prevent the spread of impetigo. See a doctor for prescription antibiotic ointment if the infection does not start to clear up within 7-10 days or gets worse.
Healing Impetigo Rashes Faster With Natural Ointments
Natural ointments and creams can help speed up the healing of impetigo rashes and provide relief from pain or itching.
Some of the best options include:
1. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal and antibacterial agent that can help clear up impetigo infections. Apply a few drops of tea tree oil diluted in a carrier oil like coconut oil 3 times a day to affected areas. The oil may sting a bit, but it will help dry out the rashes and prevent the spread of infection.
2. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has natural antifungal properties and can help moisturize and soothe impetigo rashes. Gently rub extra-virgin coconut oil onto the rashes 3-4 times a day to reduce inflammation, relieve itching, and promote healing. The lauric acid in coconut oil helps kill the bacteria that cause impetigo.
3. Aloe Vera Gel
The cooling gel from the aloe vera plant contains substances like acemannan that can help reduce inflammation and ease the pain from impetigo rashes. Apply the gel directly to the rashes 3-4 times a day. Aloe vera is very soothing and can speed up healing. Look for pure aloe gel with at least 95% aloe vera.
4. Calendula Ointment
Calendula is an herb with natural antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. An ointment or cream containing calendula extract can help reduce swelling, ease pain, and fight infection in impetigo rashes. Apply as directed 3 times a day.
5. Manuka Honey
Manuka honey from New Zealand has natural antibacterial properties and can help eliminate the infection that causes impetigo. Apply medical-grade manuka honey directly to rashes 3-4 times a day. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before rinsing off. The honey will help dry out the rashes, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
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Conclusion
Keeping the rashes clean and applying natural ointments can help speed up healing from impetigo and provide relief from symptoms. Be sure to see a doctor for a prescription antibiotic ointment or oral medication if the rashes do not start to clear up within a week or so using home remedies. Natural treatments should only be used to supplement medical care for impetigo.
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