Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection that frequently begins as small red sores or irritated patches before developing honey-colored or yellowish crusts. It can spread through direct skin contact or contaminated personal items such as towels and pillowcases. Children commonly develop impetigo, but adults can experience it as well, particularly when the skin has already been damaged or irritated.

Perioral dermatitis, on the other hand, isn’t contagious. It often appears as clusters of tiny red bumps, burning sensations, flaky skin, or persistent redness around the mouth, often sparing the skin directly next to the lips. Topical steroid creams can sometimes temporarily reduce redness while allowing perioral dermatitis to worsen or flare after the steroid is stopped. For this reason, facial steroid use is best discussed with a healthcare professional.

Excessive cleansing can also make matters worse. Strong cleansers, exfoliating products, alcohol-based toners, and aggressive acne treatments may further damage an already irritated skin barrier. Picking, scratching, or peeling crusts can delay healing and potentially increase the risk of infection. A gentle, fragrance-free routine and avoiding unnecessary products is generally a safer approach while the cause is being determined.

Yellow crusts, fluid-filled blisters, oozing, rapidly spreading redness, increasing pain, fever, or significant swelling deserve prompt medical attention. Persistent redness that doesn’t improve should also be evaluated because eczema, contact dermatitis, fungal conditions, rosacea, infections, and perioral dermatitis can sometimes look surprisingly similar. Most conditions around the mouth can be treated effectively once the correct cause is identified, making proper diagnosis far better than repeatedly experimenting with random treatments.