How to Treat Impetigo at Home – A Complete Guide

Impetigo is a common bacterial infection that affects the skin. It is highly contagious and can spread quickly from person to person. The infection usually starts as a small red sore that develops into a blister or pimple, which then forms a yellowish crust. It is most common in young children, but adults can also get it.

If you or your child has been diagnosed with impetigo, there are several home remedies that can help to alleviate symptoms and speed up the healing process. In this article, we will provide a complete guide on how to treat impetigo at home.

Table of Contents

• Symptoms of Impetigo
• Causes of Impetigo
• Home Remedies for Impetigo
• Maintaining Good Hygiene
• Essential Oils
• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Tea Tree Oil
• Honey
• Aloe Vera
• Probiotics
• Diet
• Rest
• When to See a Doctor
• Prevention of Impetigo

Symptoms of Impetigo

The symptoms of impetigo can vary depending on the severity of the infection. However, some common symptoms include:

• Small red sores that quickly turn into blisters or pimples
• Blisters or pimples that fill with pus and then burst, leaving a yellowish-brown crust
• Itchy rash
• Soreness or tenderness
• Swollen lymph nodes

Causes of Impetigo

Impetigo is caused by two types of bacteria – staphylococcus aureus and streptococcus pyogenes. These bacteria can enter the skin through cuts, scrapes, or insect bites. Impetigo is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected person or through contact with contaminated objects such as towels, clothing, or toys.

Home Remedies for Impetigo

While impetigo can be treated with antibiotics, there are several home remedies that can help to alleviate symptoms and speed up the healing process. Here are some effective home remedies for impetigo:

Maintaining Good Hygiene

Maintaining good hygiene is essential to prevent the spread of impetigo. Wash your hands regularly and keep the infected area clean and dry. Avoid touching the affected area and do not share towels, clothing, or other personal items with others. If possible, avoid contact with others until the infection has cleared up.

Essential Oils

Essential oils such as lavender, tea tree, and eucalyptus have antimicrobial properties and can help to kill the bacteria that cause impetigo. Mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil and apply it to the affected area several times a day.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help to kill the bacteria that cause impetigo. Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water and apply it to the affected area with a cotton ball. Do this several times a day.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic and can help to kill the bacteria that cause impetigo. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil and apply it to the affected area several times a day.

Honey

Honey has natural antibacterial properties and can help to kill the bacteria that cause impetigo. Apply honey directly to the affected area and cover it with a bandage. Leave it on for several hours and then rinse it off with warm water. Do this several times a day.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe the skin and speed up the healing process. Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to the affected area several times a day.

Probiotics

Probiotics can help to boost the immune system and fight off the bacteria that cause impetigo. Eat foods that are rich in probiotics such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut.

Diet

Eating a healthy diet can help to boost the immune system and speed up the healing process. Eat foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.

Rest

Rest is important for the body to heal. Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activity until the infection has cleared up.

When to See a Doctor

If the infection does not improve after a few days of home treatment, or if it spreads to other areas of the body, it is important to see a doctor. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics or other treatments to help clear up the infection.

Prevention of Impetigo

Preventing the spread of impetigo is essential to avoid getting infected. Here are some tips to prevent the spread of impetigo:

• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after coming into contact with someone who has impetigo.
• Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, clothing, and bedding with others.
• Cover any open wounds or cuts with a bandage to prevent bacteria from entering.
• Practice good hygiene habits such as taking regular showers and washing your clothes regularly.
• If you have impetigo, avoid contact with others until the infection has cleared up.

Conclusion

Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection that can be easily treated at home with natural remedies. Maintaining good hygiene, using essential oils, apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, honey, aloe vera, probiotics, eating a healthy diet, and getting plenty of rest can all help to speed up the healing process. If the infection does not improve after a few days of home treatment, it is important to see a doctor. To prevent the spread of impetigo, practice good hygiene habits and avoid contact with others if you have the infection.