Boil Treatment: Home Remedies and When to See a Doctor

Boils are a skin infection typically caused by staphylococcal bacteria. The bacteria enter the skin through nicks, cuts or hair follicles. These bacteria cause a red, tender lump (a boil) to form, and within 4 to 7 days pus begins to accumulate in the boil. Boils commonly occur on the face, neck, armpits, shoulders and buttocks. In addition to being an eyesore, boils can also be quite painful and even become infected. Fortunately, most boils heal with proper home treatment, and the pain subsides once the boil drains.

Things You'll Need

• Wash cloth
• Warm water
• Antibacterial soap
• Ointment
• Bandage

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Instructions

• 1

  Soak the wash cloth in warm water to create a warm compress. Apply the compress to the boil to decrease the pain and help move the pus to the surface.

• 2

  Leave the compress on the boil for 10 minutes. Repeat the process every 2 to 4 hours.

• 3

  Soak the area in warm baths to help the boil burst and drain.

• 4

  Gently wash the area in antibacterial soap after the boil bursts and drains completely. Apply medicated ointment to the area and cover it with a bandage.

• 5

  Wash the area 2 to 3 times per day and apply new ointment and a bandage after each wash. Continue to place warm compresses on the area until the wound heals completely.