Topical antibiotics should not be used for longer than 14 days due to the risk of bacterial resistance. It is important when treating the infection with a cream that you apply it consistently and for the prescribed duration (in the same way you would take a course of oral antibiotics). Whether the doctor gives you a topical or oral treatment depends on the size of the affected area/s and number of places where the infection occurs.

As the infection progresses, weeping and crusting with a yellow/golden tinge will be evident.īacterial skin infections are treated with antibiotics, either topically (applied to the skin) using a cream, or orally (by mouth) in the form of tablets or a liquid suspension.

If you look closely in natural light, you might see a tangerine glisten to the skin – a little bit like orange body shimmer dust. aureus will appear itchy and red or darker than your usual skin colour, depending on skin tone. When the bacteria penetrate the epidermis, an immune reaction can be triggered, which aggravates the eczema and brings about a flare. ‘Impetiginized eczema’ is another label or name given to eczema infected with Staph. It is often associated with hair follicle infections (folliculitis), boils and abscesses. aureus) is the bacterium that is most commonly responsible for secondary infection of eczema. The skin is the most important protection we have against infection as it provides a barrier that prevents the billions of bacteria found on our skin from entering the body. Infections that develop because of the underlying condition of eczema are often described as ‘secondary infections’. These alterations in the barrier function of the skin increase the potential for skin infection. There is also less protection within the skin, which you cannot see. This damage can be visible to the naked eye, appearing as cracks and areas opened up by scratching. When you have eczema, the top layer of the skin (the epidermis) is often damaged. Preventing infection is also important – from simple hand-washing before applying your creams to more sophisticated methods using antiseptics. The quicker the infection is recognised and the sooner treatment is started, the better the response to treatment will be. All of these infections require intervention to clear them up as they do not improve on their own. Skin infections are common in people with eczema and it is highly likely that at some point you will experience either a bacterial, fungal or viral infection. Your Feedback – Compliments and ComplaintsĬommon childhood infections and infestations.Our commitment to equality and diversity.Global Patient Initiative to Improve Care (GPIIEC).Eczema ‘Mindlines’ – helping parents and children manage eczema better.Atopic eczema Systemic Therapy Register (A-STAR).Information for healthcare professionals.Habit reversal and the combined approach.Seborrhoeic dermatitis & cradle cap in infants.

Yeast infection in buttocks cracks