Erysipelas is a bacterial skin infection with distinct features that can disrupt your skincare routine for weeks. Learn its causes, symptoms, treatment, and how to protect your skin without worsening the condition.
When Skin Health Meets a Bacterial Challenge
Erysipelas is a superficial but acute bacterial skin infection caused primarily by Streptococcus pyogenes, a group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus that thrives in small breaks in the skin barrier (Stevens et al., 2014). It differs from cellulitis because it typically involves the upper dermis and superficial lymphatics (Bonnetblanc & Bedane, 2003), giving it a more sharply demarcated, raised, and fiery-red appearance (Baddour, 2017).
For skincare enthusiasts, erysipelas is more than a medical condition—it’s an abrupt pause button on active treatments. Unlike a pimple or mild irritation, this infection can escalate quickly, sometimes accompanied by fever, chills, and general malaise (Lipsky et al., 2012).
Signs and Symptoms Every Skincare User Should Recognize
- Sudden Onset: Erysipelas usually begins with an abrupt onset of symptoms, often within hours (Cox, 2019).
- Distinct Borders: The rash has well-defined, raised edges that sharply separate infected from healthy skin (Jorup-Rönström, 1986).
- Skin Texture Changes: The area often feels warm, tender, and tight (Stevens et al., 2005).
- Accompanying Systemic Symptoms: Fever, chills, headache, and sometimes vomiting (Bonnetblanc & Bedane, 2003).
- Possible Facial Involvement: On the face, erysipelas can spread rapidly across the cheeks and nose (Baddour, 2017).
Triggers in a Skincare Context
While poor hygiene is not a prerequisite for erysipelas, certain skincare habits can increase risk:
- Over-Exfoliation: Disrupting the stratum corneum can create microtears (Lodén, 2005).
- Post-Procedure Skin: Microneedling, dermaplaning, or chemical peels leave skin temporarily vulnerable (Hexsel et al., 2011).
- Neglecting Wound Care: Even a small scratch from a pimple extraction can be an entry point (Baddour, 2017).
- Compromised Skin Barriers: Eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis may predispose skin to infection (Langan et al., 2015).
Skincare Adjustments During and After Erysipelas
Once diagnosed, skincare routines need to be immediately simplified:
- Pause All Actives: Avoid acids, retinoids, and exfoliants until skin has fully healed (Stevens et al., 2014).
- Gentle Cleansing: Use a pH-balanced, fragrance-free cleanser (Lodén, 2005).
- Barrier Protection: Apply bland emollients such as petrolatum to lock in moisture (Lodén, 2012).
- Sun Protection: Healing skin is sensitive to UV; opt for a mineral sunscreen (Kullavanijaya & Lim, 2005).
Post-recovery, reintroduce actives slowly—preferably with patch testing and professional guidance (Berson & Chalker, 2005).
Treatment and Recovery Considerations
Erysipelas is not treatable with skincare products alone—it requires systemic antibiotics, typically penicillin or amoxicillin (Baddour, 2017). For penicillin-allergic individuals, macrolides or clindamycin may be alternatives (Stevens et al., 2014). Duration of therapy ranges from 7–14 days, depending on severity (Lipsky et al., 2012).
Recurrence is possible, especially if underlying skin conditions remain unmanaged (Cox, 2019). Long-term prevention strategies may include addressing chronic skin disease, improving barrier care, and ensuring wounds are promptly cleaned and covered (Langan et al., 2015).
PHrituals Conclusion
For PHrituals, skin health is about empowerment and resilience. Erysipelas reminds us that skincare isn’t just beauty—it’s health protection. This infection can derail your routine, but it can also be a turning point: an opportunity to rebuild your barrier, strip your regimen to its essentials, and treat your skin with intentional care.
A smart beauty warrior knows when to fight with actives—and when to defend with gentleness. With prompt treatment, consistent prevention, and mindful skincare adjustments, you can heal without long-term setbacks.
References
Baddour, L. M. (2017). Erysipelas: Epidemiology, clinical features, and diagnosis. UpToDate.
Berson, D. S., & Chalker, D. K. (2005). An overview of topical retinoids in the treatment of photoaging. Cutis, 75(1), 10-17.
Bonnetblanc, J. M., & Bedane, C. (2003). Erysipelas: Recognition and management. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 4(3), 157–163.
Cox, N. H. (2019). Management of lower leg cellulitis. Clinical Medicine, 19(2), 160–165.
Hexsel, D., et al. (2011). Microneedling: Indications and limitations. Dermatologic Surgery, 37(10), 1458–1468.
Jorup-Rönström, C. (1986). Epidemiological, bacteriological and complicating features of erysipelas. Scandinavian Journal of Infectious Diseases, 18(6), 519–524.
Kullavanijaya, P., & Lim, H. W. (2005). Photoprotection. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 52(6), 937–958.
Langan, S. M., et al. (2015). Eczema and risk of erysipelas. British Journal of Dermatology, 172(3), 791–797.
Lipsky, B. A., et al. (2012). Infectious Diseases Society of America guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of skin and soft tissue infections. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 54(2), e132–e173.
Lodén, M. (2005). The clinical benefit of moisturizers. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 19(6), 672–688.
Lodén, M. (2012). Role of topical emollients and moisturizers in the treatment of dry skin barrier disorders. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 13(3), 177–188.
Stevens, D. L., et al. (2005). Practice guidelines for the diagnosis and management of skin and soft tissue infections. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 41(10), 1373–1406.
Stevens, D. L., et al. (2014). Practice guidelines for the diagnosis and management of skin and soft tissue infections. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 59(2), e10–e52.