Skin Infections: What They Are and How to Handle Them

Got a red, sore, or oozing spot on your skin? Chances are you’re dealing with a skin infection. They’re super common, but most people don’t know the basics. In this guide we’ll break down the main types, spot the symptoms, and give you practical steps to treat or prevent them.

Common Types of Skin Infections

Bacterial infections – Think impetigo, cellulitis, and folliculitis. These usually start after a cut, scrape, or insect bite lets germs in. The skin turns red, warms up, and may leak pus.

Fungal infections – Athlete’s foot, ringworm, and candida thrive in moist areas. They show up as itchy, scaly patches that may spread outward in a ring shape.

Viral infections – Herpes zoster (shingles) and warts fall here. Shingles causes a painful, blistering rash along a nerve path, while warts are small, rough growths.

Parasitic infections – Scabies and lice are caused by tiny bugs burrowing into skin. They cause intense itching and a rash that often looks like tiny bumps or tracks.

How to Treat and Prevent Skin Infections

First rule: keep the area clean. Gently wash with mild soap and water, then pat dry. Do NOT rub harshly – that can push bacteria deeper.

If you suspect a bacterial infection, over‑the‑counter antibiotic ointments (like bacitracin or mupirocin) work for minor cases. Apply a thin layer 2‑3 times a day and cover with a clean bandage. For larger, painful, or spreading redness, see a doctor – you may need oral antibiotics.

Fungal infections respond to antifungal creams (clotrimazole, terbinafine). Keep the spot dry; fungal bugs love moisture. Switch to breathable fabrics and change socks or underwear daily.

Viral outbreaks like shingles often need prescription antiviral pills (acyclovir, valacyclovir). Start treatment within 72 hours of the rash for best results. For warts, salicylic acid patches or cryotherapy can clear them, but be patient – it takes weeks.

To stop parasites, use medicated lotions or creams (permethrin for scabies) and wash all bedding and clothes in hot water. Keep nails trimmed to avoid scratching and spreading the bugs.

General prevention tricks: wash hands often, cover cuts with a sterile bandage, avoid sharing personal items (towels, razors), and wear shoes in public locker rooms. If you’re an athlete, use foot powder and dry your shoes between uses.

When to call a professional? If you see fever, swelling that’s getting bigger, pus that won’t stop, or the infection is on your face or genitals, get medical help fast. Those spots can turn serious quickly.Bottom line: most skin infections are easy to treat if you spot them early, keep the area clean, and use the right over‑the‑counter product. For anything beyond a tiny sore, a quick visit to a healthcare provider will keep you from a bigger problem.