Skin conditions around the mouth and face can be confusing, especially when symptoms look similar. Two common conditions that are often mistaken for one another are impetigo and cold sores. While they can both cause blisters, redness, and crusting, they have very different causes, treatments, and levels of contagiousness.
At G.M. Graham Pharmacies, we’re here to help you understand the differences between the two, so you can recognise the signs and get the right treatment as quickly as possible.
What Is Impetigo?
Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection that often affects children but can occur in people of all ages. It’s usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria.
Key symptoms of impetigo include:
- Red sores or blisters, often around the mouth and nose
- Blisters that burst and leave a golden-yellow crust
- Itchy, sometimes sore patches of skin
- Mild swelling in the affected area (in certain cases)
Impetigo spreads easily through direct contact with infected skin or items like towels, bedding, and clothing. Because of its contagious nature, treatment is usually required to clear the infection and prevent it from spreading.
What Are Cold Sores?
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). Unlike impetigo, they are viral, not bacterial. Once you contract the virus, it remains in your system and can cause flare-ups throughout your life.
Key symptoms of cold sores include:
- Tingling, burning, or itching sensations around the lips before blisters appear
- Small, fluid-filled blisters on or around the mouth
- Blisters that burst and form a scab before healing
- Outbreaks often triggered by stress, illness, tiredness, or sun exposure
Cold sores are contagious from the moment you feel the tingling stage until the blister has completely healed, usually within 7 to 10 days.
Key Differences Between Impetigo and Cold Sores
Although impetigo and cold sores can appear similar, there are several important differences:
Impetigo
- Cause: Bacterial infection
- Contagiousness: Very contagious via touch
- Appearance: Red sores that develop a honey-coloured crust
- Location: Commonly around the nose and mouth but can occur anywhere
- Treatment: Antibiotic creams or tablets
- Recurrence: Usually clears with treatment, less likely to recur
Cold Sores
- Cause: Viral infection (HSV-1)
- Contagiousness: Contagious, especially during blister stage
- Appearance: Small, fluid-filled blisters that form a scab
- Location: Usually on or around the lips
- Treatment: Antiviral creams or oral medication
- Recurrence: Can recur multiple times due to dormant virus
Recognising these distinctions is important because treatment is completely different depending on the cause.
How Impetigo Is Treated
Since impetigo is a bacterial infection, treatment focuses on clearing the bacteria and preventing the spread:
- Mild impetigo – Usually treated with an antibiotic cream applied directly to the affected area.
- Widespread or persistent impetigo – May require oral antibiotics prescribed by a GP.
- Hygiene measures – Wash hands regularly, avoid sharing towels, and keep the affected area clean and covered where possible.
You should avoid school, nursery, or work until at least 24 hours after starting treatment to reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
How Cold Sores Are Treated
As cold sores are caused by a virus, antibiotics won’t help. Treatment focuses on reducing discomfort and speeding up healing:
- Antiviral creams – Available over the counter from pharmacies and most effective when applied at the tingling stage.
- Cold sore patches – Help protect the blister and promote faster healing.
- Pain relief – Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help with discomfort.
- Trigger management – Avoiding known triggers, such as excessive sunlight or stress, can help reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
While cold sores usually heal within 7 to 10 days without treatment, antiviral creams can shorten the healing time if used early.
When to See a Pharmacist or GP
In many cases, impetigo and cold sores can be managed at home or with over-the-counter treatments. However, you should seek advice if:
- You’re unsure whether it’s impetigo or a cold sore
- The affected area is spreading rapidly or causing severe pain
- You experience repeated impetigo infections or frequent cold sore outbreaks
- You notice swelling, pus, or signs of infection around the blisters
- You have a weakened immune system or other underlying health conditions
At G.M. Graham Pharmacies, our experienced pharmacists can assess your symptoms, recommend suitable treatments, and refer you to a GP if necessary. Book an appointment today to discuss your concerns.
Preventing the Spread
Both impetigo and cold sores are contagious, so practising good hygiene is essential:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
- Avoid touching or scratching blisters or sores
- Don’t share towels, bedding, lip balms, or cutlery
- Disinfect surfaces that may have come into contact with the affected area
- Cover impetigo sores where possible and avoid close contact until they’ve healed
Taking these simple steps can help protect both you and those around you.
Impetigo vs Cold Sore: Understanding the Difference
While impetigo and cold sores can look similar, their causes, treatments, and risks are very different. Impetigo is a bacterial infection requiring antibiotics, while cold sores are viral and managed with antivirals. Understanding the difference means you can get the right treatment quickly and reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
At G.M. Graham Pharmacies, we’re here to help you identify symptoms, recommend effective treatments, and provide expert advice in a discreet and supportive environment. Contact us today or visit one of our branches for guidance or treatment options tailored to your needs.
