Impetigo

Though impetigo and cold sores share similar symptoms, they are not the same and need different treatments. Learn about the differences.

Both impetigo and cold sores are common skin conditions that cause blisters to form, usually around the mouth. Though both cold sores and impetigo are common, they are preventable. A healthcare provider can examine the sores and diagnose impetigo or cold sores. For someone with a history of cold sores, future outbreaks can be prevented by avoiding the triggers that cause outbreaks. Though both impetigo and cold sores show up as sores, the underlying causes of each are different. Covering affected areas with gauze and tape can help prevent impetigo from spreading to others. Cold sores are small blisters that often occur in clusters around the mouth or sometimes inside the mouth.1 Cold sores crust over and form scabs before they go away. Impetigo and cold sores can spread to others but are also preventable. The honey-colored crust that forms over the sores is a telltale sign of this form of impetigo. Some common treatments for cold sores include:1 This article discusses the similarities and differences between impetigo and cold sores, including symptoms, causes, and treatment. Though both of these conditions may show up as blisters around the mouth, there is usually a telltale sign that helps differentiate one from another.