Nexus Pharmacy
If you’ve noticed a blister or sore forming around your mouth, your first thought might be: “Oh no, a cold sore.” But did you know that another common skin condition—impetigo—can look surprisingly similar in the early stages?
At Nexus Pharmacy in Nottingham, we often see patients unsure whether they’re dealing with impetigo or a cold sore. And while the two may look alike, they’re caused by different infections and require different treatments.
In this blog, we’ll explain how to tell the difference between impetigo and cold sores, what to watch out for, and how your pharmacist can help you get the right treatment quickly—no GP appointment needed.
What Is a Cold Sore?
A cold sore, also known as a fever blister, is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). It typically starts with a tingling or itching sensation around the lips or mouth, followed by the appearance of a fluid-filled blister.
Cold sores are:
Highly contagious, especially through direct contact (e.g. kissing)
Usually triggered by factors like stress, fatigue, sunlight, or illness
Recurrent, as the virus stays dormant in your body after the first infection
They usually heal on their own within 7 to 10 days, but over-the-counter antiviral creams (like aciclovir) can help reduce the duration and discomfort if applied early.
What Is Impetigo?
Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. It’s especially common in children, but adults can get it too—particularly after skin damage or close contact with someone infected.
Impetigo starts with red sores or blisters that quickly burst and form a golden, honey-coloured crust. These are often mistaken for cold sores when they appear around the mouth or nose.
Key signs of impetigo:
Rapid spread to surrounding areas or other parts of the body
No tingling sensation beforehand (unlike cold sores)
Sores that ooze or weep before forming a crust
More common in children, especially during summer months
It is also highly contagious, but unlike cold sores, impetigo can be cured with a short course of antibiotics.
Impetigo or Cold Sore? Why It Matters
Because impetigo and cold sores look similar at first, it’s easy to confuse the two. However, getting the right diagnosis is important:
Cold sores can usually be treated with over-the-counter creams
Impetigo requires prescription-only antibiotics, either as a cream or oral medication depending on severity
Using the wrong treatment—or delaying care—can make the condition worse or increase the risk of spreading it to others. That’s why it’s a good idea to speak to a healthcare professional early on.
How Your Pharmacist Can Help
Thanks to the Pharmacy First service, you can now visit Nexus Pharmacy in Nottingham for a private consultation if you think you might have impetigo. Our trained pharmacists can assess your symptoms and, if appropriate, provide prescription antibiotics—without the need to see your GP.
Here’s what you can expect:
A quick, discreet consultation in our private room
A visual assessment of the affected area
Safe and effective treatment options if impetigo is diagnosed
Advice on how to manage the infection and prevent it spreading
If your condition doesn’t match the clinical criteria for impetigo—or if we suspect something more serious—we’ll let you know and help guide you to the right care. Get in touch to access the answers you need, today!
When to Seek Help
Come and see us at Nexus Pharmacy if:
You or your child has a new sore or blister around the mouth or nose
The blister has burst and crusted over
The area is spreading quickly or looks inflamed
You’re unsure whether it’s a cold sore or impetigo
Over-the-counter cold sore treatments aren’t working
The earlier you start treatment, the faster you’ll recover—and the less chance there is of passing the infection on to others.
Fast, Expert Help—No GP Appointment Needed
Don’t wait for a GP appointment or take guesses at the chemist shelf. If you’re unsure whether you have impetigo or a cold sore, speak to one of our expert pharmacists at Nexus Pharmacy in Nottingham.
We’re here to provide quick access to the right care—helping you feel better, faster, with advice you can trust.
Pop in today or call ahead to book your consultation under the Pharmacy First scheme. Your skin—and your peace of mind—are in safe hands with us.
This blog was written on behalf of Nexus Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.