What is the most common type of skin infection caused by bacteria?

Impetigo is recognized as the most common type of skin infection caused by bacteria, particularly affecting children, although it can occur in individuals of any age. This highly contagious infection is primarily caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. It typically manifests as red sores or blisters that can ooze and form a yellowish crust. Impetigo thrives in conditions that allow for easy transmission, such as crowded living situations or during warm, humid weather.

Acne, while a common skin condition, is primarily caused by the clogging of hair follicles with oil and dead skin cells, often exacerbated by hormonal changes or certain medications rather than a bacterial infection. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that results in rapid skin cell turnover leading to scaly patches but is not associated with bacterial infection. Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is also an inflammatory skin condition linked to environmental and genetic factors, not primarily bacteria. Understanding the distinctions between these conditions helps clarify why impetigo is the correct answer in the context of bacterial skin infections.