If you’ve ever had a boil, you know how painful and annoying it can be. A boil, also known as a skin abscess, is typically caused by an infection around a hair follicle or oil gland. Although it might seem challenging, there are ways to ease the discomfort and encourage the boil to drain more quickly.

Usually, boils start out as a red, tender lump. Over time, they become more painful, and pus begins to collect under your skin. The central part of the boil is full of infection-fighting white blood cells and is known as the core.

How To Get Rid Of A Boil At Home

Warm Compress

The most effective at-home treatment is to apply a warm compress. You can do this by soaking a washcloth in warm water and gently pressing it against the boil for about 20 minutes. You should aim to do this three to four times a day. The heat does a great job of increasing circulation, which brings more infection-fighting white cells to the area.

Keep It Clean

Make sure to wash the boil with mild soap and water, and do this twice a day. Keeping the area clean is crucial. After you wash it, you can cover it with a sterile bandage to keep it protected.

Never Squeeze

Although you might be tempted, never squeeze or try to cut a boil yourself. This can push the infection deeper into your skin and can cause more problems.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

There are over-the-counter treatments available, like antibiotic ointments or creams, which you can apply after cleaning the area. However, these don’t necessarily make the boil go away overnight; they’re more about preventing the spread of infection and speeding up recovery.

Medical Treatments

See a Doctor

If your boil doesn’t start to improve after a few days of home care, it’s time to see a doctor. This is particularly important if you develop a fever or if the boil is on your face, as infections in this area can be more dangerous.

Antibiotics

Doctors may prescribe antibiotics if they determine the infection is severe or if you have multiple boils, which is a condition known as carbuncles.

Medical Drainage

In some cases, a doctor may need to perform a small procedure to drain the boil. This is usually done with local anesthesia and is a quick way to relieve the pain and speed up the healing process.

Preventing Future Boils

To prevent boils in the future, you should practice good hygiene, keep your skin clean, and avoid sharing personal items like towels or razors. If you get boils often, you may want to talk to a doctor or a dermatologist for additional procedures.

While you can’t truly get rid of a boil overnight, these steps can significantly reduce the discomfort and help your body overcome the infection more quickly. Always keep an eye on the boil for signs of worsening infection, and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if necessary.

Further Reading: Boil On Inner Thigh: What You Need to Know