Causes of honey coloured crusts

Overview

Honey coloured crusts are a sign of a bacterial skin infection called impetigo. It usually starts as red sores that burst and develop a golden or honey-coloured crust.

Yes, impetigo is one of the most common skin infections in children.

It most often affects children aged 2 to 6, but can occur at any age, especially in people with weakened immune systems or poor hygiene.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Red sores that may blister and ooze fluid
• Honey-coloured crusts forming over the sores
• Itching or mild pain around the affected area
• Sores often appear around the nose and mouth, but can occur anywhere on the body

Symptoms in children

• Sores may spread quickly to other parts of the body
• Children may scratch and spread the infection
• Blisters can be larger and more widespread

Symptoms in older adults

• Sores may be slower to heal
• Infection can be more widespread or severe
• Higher risk of complications like cellulitis (deeper skin infection)

Causes

Main causes

• Bacterial infection, most often Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes
• Direct contact with an infected person or contaminated objects (towels, toys, bedding)
• Breaking the skin: scratches, insect bites, or cuts allow bacteria to enter

Risk factors

• Age: children are at highest risk
• Crowded living conditions (schools, daycare centers)
• Poor hygiene or lack of access to clean water
• Weakened immune system (e.g., due to illness or medication)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If the crusts are spreading quickly or accompanied by fever
• If the area becomes very red, hot, or painful (signs of cellulitis)

Book a routine appointment if:

• If crusts do not improve after a few days of basic care
• If the infection returns after treatment

Diagnosis

A doctor can usually diagnose impetigo by looking at the skin. They may ask about symptoms and recent contact with infected people.

Tests that may be done

• A swab of the crust or fluid may be taken and sent to a lab to identify the bacteria, especially if the infection is severe or not responding to treatment.

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will examine the affected area and may gently remove a small sample. The test does not hurt much and results usually come back in a few days. In the meantime, treatment can often begin.

Treatment

Impetigo is treated with antibiotics to kill the bacteria and prevent spread. Treatment is usually simple and effective.

Self-care at home

• Gently wash the crusts with warm water and mild soap, then pat dry
• Avoid scratching or picking at the sores
• Wash hands frequently, especially after touching the infected area
• Use separate towels, bedding, and clothing until the infection clears

Medical treatments

Doctors typically prescribe an antibiotic cream or ointment for mild cases. For more widespread or severe infections, oral antibiotics (taken by mouth) may be recommended. Always finish the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if the skin looks better.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not needed for impetigo.

Living with this condition

Keep the infected skin clean and covered with a light bandage to prevent scratching and spreading. Change the bandage daily. Avoid close contact with others, including sharing towels, until the crusts are gone or you have been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours.

Lifestyle tips

• Wash your hands often with soap and water
• Do not share personal items like razors, towels, or combs
• Keep fingernails short to reduce scratching

Diet and exercise

No special diet or exercise changes are needed, but eating a healthy diet can support your immune system.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

The sores can be embarrassing, especially in visible areas like the face. This may cause worry or affect social activities, particularly in children. Remind yourself that the infection is temporary and treatable.

Prevention

Good hygiene is the best way to prevent impetigo. Wash hands regularly, clean cuts and scrapes promptly, and avoid sharing personal items.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine specifically for impetigo, but staying up to date with routine vaccinations (like tetanus) helps prevent complications from skin injuries.

Screening programmes

No routine screening is needed, but if someone in the home has impetigo, check others for early signs of sores.

Complications

If left untreated

• The infection can spread to other parts of the body or to other people
• Rarely, it can lead to more serious infections like cellulitis or blood poisoning
• A small number of cases may cause a kidney condition called post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidneys)

Long-term outlook

With proper antibiotic treatment, impetigo usually clears up completely within 7 to 10 days. Scarring is rare unless the sores are picked or scratched deeply. The outlook is excellent.

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