How does benzoyl peroxide help treat boils. What are the best home remedies for boils. When should you see a doctor for a boil. How can you prevent recurring boils.

Understanding Boils: Causes and Symptoms

Boils, also known as furuncles, are painful, pus-filled bumps that form under the skin. They occur when bacteria, typically Staphylococcus aureus, invade a hair follicle and create an infection. This invasion leads to inflammation, swelling, and the formation of pus at the base of the follicle.

Common symptoms of boils include:

• A red, swollen bump on the skin
• Tenderness and pain in the affected area
• Gradual increase in size as pus accumulates
• Formation of a yellowish or white “head” as the boil matures

Boils can appear anywhere on the body but are most common in areas with hair and increased sweating, such as the armpits, groin, buttocks, and face.

Why do boils form in certain areas?

Boils tend to develop in areas with high moisture content and friction. Dr. Sheryl Clark, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell Medical Center, explains, “The most common places for boils to form are in blocked hair follicles on the buttocks, inner thighs, and under your arms — areas with a lot of moisture.” This environment provides ideal conditions for bacteria to thrive and cause infections.

The Role of Benzoyl Peroxide in Treating Boils

Benzoyl peroxide, commonly used in acne treatments, can be an effective tool in managing boils. This over-the-counter medication offers several benefits in the treatment process:

• Drying effect: Benzoyl peroxide helps dry out the boil, potentially speeding up the healing process.
• Antibacterial properties: It can kill bacteria on the skin’s surface, reducing the risk of further infection.
• Size reduction: Regular application may help decrease the size of the boil.

Dr. Wilma Bergfeld, head of clinical research in the Department of Dermatology at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, recommends using an over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide agent such as Oxy 10 twice daily to dry out the lesion and reduce its size. She notes, “Benzoyl peroxide is also an antiseptic, so it kills bacteria.”

How should benzoyl peroxide be applied to a boil?

To use benzoyl peroxide effectively on a boil:

1. Clean the affected area gently with mild soap and water.
2. Pat the skin dry with a clean towel.
3. Apply a thin layer of benzoyl peroxide directly to the boil and surrounding skin.
4. Repeat this process twice daily, or as directed by your healthcare provider.

It’s important to note that while benzoyl peroxide can be helpful, it should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach for boils.

Home Remedies and Self-Care for Boils

In addition to benzoyl peroxide, several home remedies can help manage boils and promote healing:

Warm Compresses

Applying warm compresses is a time-tested method for treating boils. Dr. Karen E. Burke, an attending physician at Cabrini Medical Center, explains, “Warm, moist heat increases blood flow to the area, which may bring the boil to a head and speed healing.” To use this method:

• Soak a clean washcloth in hot water.
• Apply the compress to the boil for 20-30 minutes.
• Repeat this process 2-3 times daily until the boil comes to a head.

Saline Solution

Once a boil has opened naturally, a saline solution can help draw out pus and fluid while promoting drying. Dr. Clark suggests creating a simple saline solution at home:

1. Mix one teaspoon of salt with one cup of hot water.
2. Dip a clean washcloth into the solution and wring it out.
3. Hold the cloth on the boil until it cools.
4. Repeat as needed, redipping the cloth in the solution.

Proper Hygiene

Maintaining good hygiene is crucial when dealing with boils. Dr. Bergfeld recommends:

• Washing the affected area regularly with antibacterial soap and water.
• Using sterile bottled water for open wounds.
• Applying over-the-counter antibacterial ointments like Bacitracin or Neosporin to help kill bacteria.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Boils

While many boils can be treated at home, certain situations require professional medical care. You should consult a doctor if:

• The area around the boil becomes increasingly red or swollen
• The boil is deep and contains a large amount of pus
• You develop multiple boils
• A boil appears on your upper lip, nose, cheeks, scalp, or forehead
• You develop a boil on your breast, especially if you’re breastfeeding
• You experience frequent recurrences of boils

These situations may indicate a more severe infection or an underlying health condition that requires medical intervention.

What treatments might a doctor recommend for severe boils?

For severe or recurring boils, a healthcare provider may suggest:

• Incision and drainage of the boil
• Prescription oral antibiotics
• Culture tests to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection
• Evaluation for underlying conditions that may increase susceptibility to boils

Preventing Boils: Strategies for Reducing Recurrence

While it’s not always possible to prevent boils entirely, several strategies can help reduce their occurrence:

Maintain Good Hygiene

Regular cleansing helps remove bacteria from the skin’s surface, reducing the risk of infection. Consider:

• Showering daily, especially after sweating
• Using antibacterial soap
• Changing clothes regularly, particularly undergarments and workout attire

Avoid Sharing Personal Items

To prevent the spread of bacteria:

• Don’t share towels, washcloths, or razors
• Avoid using someone else’s personal care items
• Wash bedding and towels regularly in hot water

Treat Cuts and Scrapes Promptly

Since bacteria often enter through small breaks in the skin:

• Clean any cuts or scrapes immediately with soap and water
• Apply an antibacterial ointment to minor wounds
• Cover cuts with clean, dry bandages until healed

Manage Underlying Conditions

Certain health conditions can increase the risk of developing boils. Work with your healthcare provider to manage:

• Diabetes
• Immune system disorders
• Skin conditions that cause breaks in the skin

Understanding Different Types of Boils

While all boils are bacterial infections of hair follicles, there are several distinct types:

Furuncles

These are the most common type of boil, typically involving a single hair follicle. They often appear on the face, neck, armpits, buttocks, or thighs.

Carbuncles

A carbuncle is a cluster of furuncles that form a connected area of infection under the skin. These are more severe and may cause fever and fatigue.

Pilonidal Cysts

These boils occur at the top of the buttocks crease and can be particularly painful. They’re more common in men and people who sit for extended periods.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

This chronic condition causes recurring boils in areas where skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts.

The Impact of Diet and Lifestyle on Boil Formation

While the primary cause of boils is bacterial infection, certain lifestyle factors can influence their development and recurrence:

Nutrition

A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support your immune system, potentially reducing the risk of infections. Consider incorporating:

• Vitamin C-rich foods to boost immune function
• Zinc-containing foods to support skin health
• Probiotics to promote a healthy balance of bacteria in the body

Hydration

Staying well-hydrated helps your body flush out toxins and supports overall skin health. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Stress Management

Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Implement stress-reduction techniques such as:

• Regular exercise
• Meditation or deep breathing exercises
• Adequate sleep

Clothing Choices

Tight or non-breathable clothing can create a warm, moist environment that bacteria thrive in. Opt for:

• Loose-fitting, breathable fabrics
• Moisture-wicking materials during exercise
• Clean, dry clothes, especially after sweating

By addressing these lifestyle factors, you may be able to reduce your risk of developing boils and support overall skin health.

Myths and Misconceptions About Boils

There are several common misconceptions about boils that can lead to improper treatment or unnecessary worry:

Myth: Popping a boil will speed healing

Fact: Dr. Clark strongly advises against popping boils, stating, “If you squeeze it, you will actually spread the infection and make it worse.” Allow boils to drain naturally or seek medical attention for proper drainage.

Myth: All boils are caused by poor hygiene

Fact: While good hygiene is important in preventing boils, they can occur even in individuals with excellent hygiene practices. Factors like genetics, underlying health conditions, and environmental factors also play a role.

Myth: Boils are always contagious

Fact: While the bacteria causing boils can spread, boils themselves are not directly contagious. However, the pus from an open boil can potentially spread infection if it comes into contact with broken skin.

Myth: Antibiotics are always necessary to treat boils

Fact: Many boils can be treated effectively with home remedies and over-the-counter treatments like benzoyl peroxide. Antibiotics are typically reserved for severe or recurring cases, or when there are signs of spreading infection.

Understanding these myths can help you approach boil treatment more effectively and know when to seek professional medical advice.

Boils | Prevention

Description & Prevention

“Boil, boil, soiled and troubled; skin that burns, oh nasty bubble!” This mutation of a classic line from “Macbeth” might make Shakespeare turn over in his grave, but it aptly describes the witch’s brew of pus, infection, pain, and inflammation that make up a boil.

A boil occurs when bacteria — usually Staphylococcus aureus — invade a hair follicle in the skin, travel down the follicle, and form a collection of infected pus at the base. The boil often comes to a head when the fluid naturally pushes its way to the skin surface. The result is a swollen, hard, red bump on your skin.

“The most common places for boils to form are in blocked hair follicles on the buttocks, inner thighs, and under your arms — areas with a lot of moisture,” says Sheryl Clark, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell Medical Center and an assistant attending physician in medicine at New York Hospital, both in New York City. Occasionally, boils can also form on the face or neck. A stye on your eyelid is also a type of boil.

Since the staph bug often invades your body through a scratch or cut, put antibacterial ointment on all cuts and scrapes. People prone to boils may want to consider washing regularly with antibacterial soap. [pagebreak]

Treatment

Never pop a boil, says Dr. Clark. “A boil drains a large amount of highly infected fluid. If you squeeze it, you will actually spread the infection and make it worse.” Instead, try these doctor-recommended steps.

Apply warm compresses. “Warm, moist heat increases bloodflow to the area, which may bring the boil to a head and speed healing,” says dermatologist Karen E. Burke, MD, PhD, an attending physician at Cabrini Medical Center in New York City and at Greensboro Specialty Surgical Center in North Carolina.

Apply a washcloth soaked in hot water to the boil for 20 to 30 minutes, two or three times a day, until the boil comes to a head. “Sometimes that allows the boil to pop on its own and drain,” says Dr. Clark. Once the boil pops naturally, it should feel better immediately, and it should heal within several days.

Reap the benefits of benzoyl peroxide. Especially if a boil is large, the acne preparation benzoyl peroxide may help dry it out. “An over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide agent such as Oxy 10 can be used twice a day to dry out the lesion and reduce its size,” says Wilma Bergfeld, MD, head of clinical research in the Department of Dermatology at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. “Benzoyl peroxide is also an antiseptic, so it kills bacteria.”

Try a saline solution. Once a boil pops, apply saltwater to draw out pus and fluid and dry it out. “In a clean basin or sink, mix a teaspoon of salt for every cup of hot water. Dip in a washcloth, wring it out, and hold it on the boil. When it cools, redip it and reapply,” suggests Dr. Clark.

Wash away germs. Keep the area clean by washing with a liquid antibacterial soap and water, especially when a boil has started to drain. “Tap water is fine unless it’s an open wound; then use sterile bottled water,” says Dr. Bergfeld.

Apply antibacterial ointment. Bacitracin or Neosporin can help kill off any bacteria that is inside the boil or on the skin, says Dr. Clark. [pagebreak]

When to See a Doctor

If you have just one boil, you’re probably safe treating it at home, says Dr. Bergfeld. But you should see a doctor if:

You develop a boil on your upper lip, nose, cheeks, scalp, or forehead. Infections in these areas can gain easy access to the brain.

Q. A few years ago, I noticed…

Q. A few years ago, I noticed a few boils between my legs after a trip to a water park. They went away but returned about six months later. Now I always have them, inside my thighs under my buttocks. The doctor said they weren’t an STD. What are they and why are they there? They never go away no matter what. It’s very embarrassing.

A. You shouldn’t be embarrassed about your condition. Boils are simply bacterial infections of hair follicles. They happen to most of us at one time or the other.

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The bacterial organism that usually causes boils is the well-known Staphylococcus aureus. The infection results in large, red, tender, swollen areas around each hair follicle affected.

The most common sites for boils are areas of the skin subject to irritation and friction, pressure or moisture. Application of petroleum-based lotions or creams also can plug the holes around the hair follicles and lead to an infection.

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As you probably know, most of the time, these boils are just a painful but relatively minor skin problem that go away on their own. However, they can recur in the same area over and over again, and sometimes the infection can spread, creating a more serious problem.

I suggest you deal with your problem in three ways: self care, medical treatment and detective work. Self-care measures include: Applying warm, moist compresses on the boil to encourage it to drain by itself; avoiding squeezing the boil; washing the affected area (and your hands) with a strong antibacterial soap; using an over-the-counter antibacterial ointment as necessary.

Acne medications that contain benzoyl peroxide are absorbed through the skin and can be helpful. If the boil has come to a head, gently lancing it with a sterilized needle will hasten resolution.

Staying cool, clean and dry surely should help. You may want to try cotton underwear and avoid wearing pantyhose when you can.

With your condition, you may be inclined to take many showers or baths a day. There is no evidence that washing your whole body that frequently will help prevent boils. And you may in fact be washing away natural oils that are good for your skin.

The recommended medical treatment for an existing “mature” boil is incision and drainage by a health-care provider. But your major concern is to stop recurrence of episodes of the infection. Because you get these infections frequently (known as recurrent furunculosis), you may want to ask your doctor about oral antibiotics, particularly dicloxacillin, rifampin or erythromycin if you’re allergic to penicillin.

Finally, the detective work involves trying to find out how and why you are getting these staph infections. It’s often difficult to find the predisposing cause, but you should try. The first thing is to assure that you’re not getting the infections from your environment, which can include roommates or family members.

From what you’ve said, you probably do have boils. But it may be a different skin infection. If after doing all I’ve suggested, you still have the infection, you may want to have a doctor, preferably a dermatologist, culture some of the exudate to determine what the organism is.

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Update on walking: For all you men over 70

who say, “I’m too old to exercise and it won’t help me now anyway,” a recent study proves you wrong.

Men between the ages of 71 and 90 who walked only 1.5 miles per day cut their risk of heart attack in half over three years.

We’re not talking jogging here, simply walking, something almost everyone can do safely when starting out slowly and working up to it.

I expect that studies in older women also will prove that walking a moderate amount each day will prevent heart attacks for them as well.

———-

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Write to Dr. Douma in care of the Chicago Tribune, Room 400, 435 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611.

ICSC 0225 – BENZOYL PEROXIDE

ICSC 0225 – BENZOYL PEROXIDE

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