Honey coloured crusts

Overview

Honey-coloured crusts are a sign of impetigo, a common bacterial skin infection. The crusts look like dried honey or golden flakes on the skin, often around the nose, mouth, or on the hands and other body parts.

Yes, impetigo is one of the most common skin infections in children, but it can affect people of any age.

It most often affects young children, but adults can get it too, especially if they have close contact with someone who is infected or have a weakened immune system.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Red sores or blisters that burst and form honey-coloured crusts
• Itching or mild soreness around the sores
• The crusts may ooze fluid and then dry into a thick, golden layer

Symptoms in children

• Sores often appear around the nose and mouth
• The infection can spread quickly to other parts of the body if scratched
• Children may feel irritable or mildly unwell

Symptoms in older adults

• Sores may be larger or take longer to heal
• Adults with underlying health conditions (like diabetes) may have a higher risk of complications
• The infection can be more widespread if not treated early

Causes

Main causes

• The bacteria Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes enter the skin through a cut, scrape, or insect bite.
• These bacteria are common on the skin and can cause infection when the skin barrier is broken.

Risk factors

• Close contact with someone who has impetigo
• Living in warm, humid conditions
• Poor hygiene or not washing hands regularly
• Having a weakened immune system or a skin condition like eczema

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have signs of a spreading infection – red streaks, fever, or severe pain – see a doctor urgently or go to an urgent care centre.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you notice honey-coloured crusts that are not improving after a few days, make a routine appointment with your general practitioner (GP) or a pharmacist for advice.

Diagnosis

Your doctor or nurse can usually diagnose impetigo just by looking at the skin – the honey-coloured crusts are very distinctive.

Tests that may be done

• Rarely, a swab of the sore may be taken and sent to a lab to identify the exact bacteria, especially if the infection keeps coming back or is severe.

What to expect at your appointment

The examination is quick and painless. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and whether you have been in contact with anyone else with similar sores.

Treatment

Impetigo is treated with antibiotics, either as a cream or as tablets. The goal is to clear the infection, prevent it from spreading, and reduce the chance of complications.

Self-care at home

• Keep the infected area clean and gently wash off crusts with warm water and mild soap.
• Avoid scratching the sores – cut fingernails short if needed.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Do not share towels, flannels, bedding, or clothing with others.
• Keep children off school or nursery until the sores are dry and crusted over, or until at least 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment.

Medical treatments

Your doctor will recommend an antibiotic cream for mild cases, applied directly to the affected skin. For more widespread infections, they may prescribe antibiotic tablets. Always complete the full course, even if the sores start to heal.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not needed for impetigo.

Living with this condition

While you have impetigo, focus on good hygiene to avoid passing the infection to others. Cover the sores with a light dressing or plaster if possible. Avoid contact sports and swimming until the sores have healed.

Lifestyle tips

• Take extra care with hand washing – before and after touching the affected area.
• Use a separate towel and wash it in hot water after each use.
• Change bedding and pyjamas daily until the sores are gone.

Diet and exercise

No special diet is needed, but eating a balanced diet helps support your immune system. You can continue light exercise as long as you feel well, but avoid activities that cause sweating on the affected area.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Some people feel self-conscious or embarrassed about the visible sores, especially children. Reassure them that it is a common infection that will heal. If you feel anxious, talk to your doctor or a trusted friend.

Prevention

Yes, good hygiene is the best prevention. Wash hands often, cover cuts and scrapes with clean dressings, and do not share personal items like towels or razors. If someone in your home has impetigo, clean surfaces regularly.

Complications

If left untreated

• The infection can spread to other parts of your skin or to other people.
• Rarely, it can lead to a deeper skin infection called cellulitis.
• In very rare cases, certain strains of the bacteria can cause kidney inflammation (glomerulonephritis).

Long-term outlook

With treatment, impetigo usually heals completely within a week or so. Most people do not have any long-term problems. Scars are rare unless the sores were deeply scratched or picked. It is a very treatable condition.

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