What types of germs infect the skin?
Bacteria cause such infections as impetigo, which causes crusty sores on the face, and cellulitis, which makes the skin red and tender. Fungi can cause athlete’s foot, an itchy infection that usually sprouts between toes, and ringworm, which appears as red, ring-shaped sores, especially on the scalp. Both types of infections can be treated with medications. A herpes virus is behind the blisters around the mouth known as cold sores (photo, below left). These can be spread, so don’t share lip gloss or kisses until sores vanish. Viruses also cause warts–small, hard bumps on the hands and feet that can be treated with over-the-counter products or a doctor’s help. Q: Are the markings on my skin normal? A: Everybody has unique markings, including birthmarks (right), moles, and freckles. All are perfectly normal. Both freckles and moles are caused by extra melanin, the same pigment that causes suntans. Freckles can appear anywhere, and moles are usually bigger clumps of melanin that extend d
