Red Sores On The Face? Here Are 9 Effective Home Remedies For Impetigo

Impetigo is a bacterial infection that occurs most often in young children ages 2 to 5. It is an extremely contagious skin infection. Symptoms of impetigo include small, red, and inflamed rashes all over the child’s torso or red sores around the nose and mouth. It would be best to treat the infection immediately before the sores leave scars. It is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes or Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Such sores usually appear on the face, around the nose and mouth, and on the hands and feet of the infected person. Keep reading to know about some home remedies to treat red sores on the face or also called impetigo. 

Home remedies for impetigo 

Ecthyma is another severe type of impetigo, which penetrates deeper into the skin. Adults usually develop impetigo due to a skin injury from another skin condition like dermatitis, which causes inflammation of the skin. Here are 7 home remedies that can help in treating impetigo: 

1. Tea tree oil 

Tea tree oil is antibacterial and can help in fighting staphylococci infections. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also help to alleviate itching and heal the sores. Add three to four drops of tea tree oil to a cup of water. Mix well and dip a cotton ball into the solution. Gently swipe the infected area with the soaked cotton. Discard the used cotton.

2. Coconut oil 

Coconut oil possesses both anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help in reducing the inflammation and pain in the affected areas. Take a tablespoon of coconut oil in a small bowl. Dip a cotton swab in it and apply it to the affected skin. Discard the used swab. Leave the oil on for 30 minutes to an hour. Rinse it off with water.

Also read: 9 Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Red Spots On Skin

3. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar possesses antibacterial potential against S. aureus. It can help reduce the severity of impetigo symptoms when applied topically and speeds up the healing of the infection when consumed. Add a tablespoon of raw apple cider vinegar to a cup of water.  Gently apply the mixture to the affected skin.

4. Turmeric 

Turmeric is best known as an Asian herbal spice. It also has a history as an anti-inflammatory remedy. Additionally, turmeric boasts antimicrobial properties, even against bacteria that cause impetigo. Try applying a turmeric poultice directly to impetigo sores. You can do this by mixing water with turmeric powder to make a paste. 

5. Grapefruit seed 

Grapefruit seed is available in liquid extract or tincture form. Dilute it with water and then apply the mixture topically to impetigo sores. Grapefruit seed may help manage impetigo. A 2011 study of grapefruit peel extract showed it had antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus. 

Also read: Guide To Different Types of Skin Bumps And Tips To Treat Them Naturally

6. Ginger 

Place a slice of ginger, cut side down, on impetigo sores. It might sting a little. You can also juice ginger root and make a poultice from the juice, applying it topically. Incorporating ginger into your diet is another option. Just like garlic, ginger also contains antimicrobial and anti inflammatory properties that can help in acting as an effective home remedy to treat impetigo. 

7. Garlic 

Garlic has historically been used to treat bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Garlic extracts may suppress both bacteria strains that cause impetigo. Place the cut side of a slice of garlic directly on impetigo sores. This may sting a little. You can also press garlic cloves, and then apply topically. Garlic is also great to incorporate into your diet.

Practice good hygiene to avoid catching or spreading contagious skin diseases. If you or your child develops a skin rash, you can use the above listed home remedies. You can also make an appointment with your doctor. They can help identify the cause and prescribe appropriate treatment.