Impetigo

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that most often affects children, though anyone can catch it. It usually shows up as red, itchy sores around the nose, mouth, or on the hands and feet. When these sores break open, they often form a tan or yellow crust that looks a bit like cornflakes stuck to the skin.

The condition happens when specific bacteria enter the skin through a small cut, an insect bite, or a patch of irritated skin like a scrape or eczema (a common condition that makes skin red and itchy). Because it is highly contagious, it spreads easily through skin-to-skin contact or by sharing items like towels or toys.