Home Remedies for Impetigo

Home care helps comfort and stops the spread, but it does not replace medicine prescribed by a doctor.

Cleaning the sores

• Gently soak crusts with warm water and mild soap to loosen them, then pat dry with a clean towel.
• Wash your hands before and after touching the sores.
• Cover sores with a loose gauze or dressing if your doctor advises, to stop scratching and spread.

Stop the spread

• Keep nails short and discourage scratching.
• Use separate towels, washcloths and bedding. Wash them in hot water.
• Wash clothes, toys and bedding used during the illness.
• Keep your child at home until the sores have crusted over, or until a doctor says it is safe, usually after 24 to 48 hours of treatment.
• Avoid contact sports and swimming pools until healed.

Comfort

• Cool, damp cloths for itching
• Loose cotton clothes
• Paracetamol for discomfort if needed, in a child-appropriate dose

What to avoid

• Do not pick or pull off crusts.
• Do not apply steroid creams unless prescribed.
• Do not put toothpaste, oils, ghee, turmeric paste or other home pastes on open sores.
• Do not put any drops or home preparations in or near the eyes.
• Do not give honey to a baby under 12 months.
• Do not use herbal remedies for infants unless a paediatrician advises it.

Key point

Cleanliness and covering the sores help, but most children need a prescribed antibiotic. See a doctor if sores do not improve in 2 to 3 days.

Before your appointment

Note when the sores began, where they started, whether they ooze or crust, and whether anyone at home or school has similar sores. List any fever, itching, eczema, scabies, diabetes, allergies and medicines tried so far. Take a photo of the rash. Ask about the antibiotic, when it is safe to return to school and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.