Impetigo is a type of skin infection that affects children which is the cause of poor hygiene especially among kids living in moist and humid climates. As the Mayo Clinic mentioned, the infection causes pus-filled bumps which develop a crusty covering that leads to scarring. Impetigo is known to be highly contagious and develops on the upper lip of a child. Pustules first appear for 4 to 10 days after being exposed to bacteria. It is recommended that impetigo should be treated and covered properly to avoid passing of the infection and so as to prevent the child from scratching which can lead to infection.
Treatment #1: Chemical Peel
Consult your dermatologist or a cosmetologist for a chemical peel. This is the process of using chemical instead of mechanical instruments in removing the top layer of the scarred skin. In addition, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons mentioned that these chemical peels differ in strength and is based on the size of the scar and the size you want to remove. Stronger chemical peels can remove deeper scars however they sometimes cause uneven skin pigmentation in the new skin growth.
Treatment #2: Dermabrasion
A dermatologist or plastic surgeon may recommend dermabrasion after you have removed completely the impetigo. The American Academy of Dermatology mentioned that dermabrasion is one of the most popular forms of facial scar treatment. The procedure removes the outer layer of the scarred skin with the use of diamond-tip sanding instrument which such procedure also stimulates growth of new skin.
Treatment #3: Laser Scar-Removal Surgery
There are several types of laser surgery used to minimize the appearance of impetigo scars that have occurred since childhood. As the Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery said, lasers eradicate the surface layer of the skin similar to that of dermabrasion and chemical peels. The light coming from the laser also targets the underlying tissues of the skin thus it can heal the scar from inside out. This is because it promotes collagen production to fill up the scarred recesses of the skin.
Treatment #4: Facial Reconstructive Surgery
Consult a plastic surgeon about a medical opinion regarding facial reconstructive surgery. Scars resulting from impetigo is almost similar to that of acne scars and do not become large in due time. Plastic surgery requires skin grafts and a long period of recovery time however it is considered the best solution for scars that have hardened. This procedure restricts facial movements anyway. Although there are several surgical options you can choose from to remove facial scars, most of them can create some minor residual scarring.
The American Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery and Reconstructive Surgery mentioned that facial skin needs one year to recover fully. Before deciding to undergo cosmetic procedure to remove the scars, be sure that healing is completed fully. Although impetigo is not considered a medical condition, these kinds of scars in children can undermine ones self-confidence and these are not covered by health insurance noted by the American Academy of Facial and Reconstructive Surgery.
