Skin Infections: What to Look For and What to Do

Ever had a red, hot patch of skin and wondered if it’s serious? Skin infections are common, and most are easy to treat if you catch them early. This page gives clear, practical steps to spot common infections, basic home care, and when to see a doctor.

Common types and how to spot them

Different bugs cause different problems. Here are the ones you’ll see most often:

Cellulitis – A spreading red, swollen, warm area, often painful. It can come after a cut or insect bite. Fever and feeling unwell are red flags.

Impetigo – Mostly in kids. Small blisters or honey-colored crusts, usually around the nose and mouth. Very contagious.

Folliculitis and boils – Infected hair follicles look like pimple-like bumps or painful lumps filled with pus.

Fungal infections – Athlete’s foot, ringworm, and yeast infections cause itchy, scaly, or ring-shaped rashes. They like warm, damp places.

Herpes simplex – Groups of painful blisters that come and go. Viral, so antibiotics won’t work.

Treatment and prevention tips

First, match the treatment to the cause. For small cuts and scrapes, clean with soap and water, apply an antiseptic, and cover. That alone prevents many infections.

If you see spreading redness, warmth, or fever, call a doctor — cellulitis often needs oral antibiotics. Impetigo can sometimes be treated with topical antibiotic creams, but more widespread cases need oral meds.

Fungal problems usually clear with over-the-counter antifungal creams or powders if caught early. For stubborn or widespread fungal infections, prescription antifungal pills may be needed.

Herpes flare-ups respond to antiviral pills started early. Don’t use antibiotics for viral or fungal infections — they won’t help and can cause side effects.

Simple home care helps a lot: keep wounds clean and dry, change dressings daily, avoid squeezing boils, and don’t share towels or razors. For athlete’s foot, dry your feet well and use antifungal powder in shoes.

Watch for warning signs: spreading redness, red streaks toward the heart, high fever, severe pain, or rapid swelling. These mean urgent medical care. Also tell your doctor if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system — infections can get serious faster.

Prevention is straightforward: treat cuts quickly, keep skin dry in sweaty areas, trim nails, avoid walking barefoot in public showers, and manage chronic conditions like diabetes. Vaccines don’t prevent most common skin infections, but good hygiene and quick care do.

If you’re unsure about a rash or wound, a quick call to a nurse line or your clinic can save trouble later. Early action usually means simpler treatment and faster healing.