Skin Infections

Bacterial infections

Bacterial skin infections are often caused by Staphylococcus or Streptococcus bacteria. Common examples include:

• Cellulitis: A painful infection that causes redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected area and damages the skin.
• Impetigo: Highly contagious, often seen in children, marked by honey-colored crusts around the mouth, nose, or hands.
• Folliculitis: Inflammation of the hair follicles, causing pus-filled bumps
• Boils (furuncles)/ abscesses: Red, swollen lumps filled with pus that can form around hair follicles.
• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA): A common skin infection that is difficult to treat, is highly contagious, and progresses quickly. It often appears as red, swollen, painful skin sores or boils that may contain pus. It is best if treated early to prevent serious complications.

Viral infections

Viruses can also affect the skin, leading to conditions that are sometimes contagious. Examples include:

• Warts: Caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), appearing as small, rough growths.
• Herpes simplex: Produces painful blisters or cold sores around the mouth or genitals.
• Varicella-Zoster Virus: a virus that causes chicken pox. After initial infection, the virus stays in the body and causes shingles.
• Measles Virus: Highly contagious infection that produces a distinct red rash, fever, and cough.
• Shingles: A reactivation of the chickenpox virus in adults, leading to painful, blistering rashes.
• Molluscum contagiosum virus: Produces small, flesh-colored bumps on the skin.

Fungal infections

Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and often affect areas like the feet, groin, or under folds of skin. Common fungal infections include:

• Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis): Itchy, scaly skin between the toes.
• Ringworm (tinea corporis): Circular, red, ring-shaped rash on the body or scalp.
• Yeast infections (candidiasis): Can occur in the mouth, genital area, or skin folds.
• Toenail fungus: One of the most common fungal infections. Caused by dermatophytes, a group of fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments. Causes the nail to become thickened, discolored, brittle, and fall off. This can be more difficult to treat successfully than other anatomical areas.

Parasitic infections

Parasites are less common but can still affect the skin. Examples include:

• Scabies: Caused by tiny mites burrowing into the skin, leading to intense itching and rash.
• Lice infestations: Itchy scalp or body due to parasitic insects feeding on blood.

The symptoms vary depending on the cause, but common warning signs include:

• Redness or swelling in the affected area
• Pain or tenderness to the touch
• Itching or burning sensations
• Blisters, bumps, or sores that may ooze fluid or pus
• Warmth or fever, which can indicate the infection is spreading

Mild infections may clear on their own, but a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Joshua Freedman should evaluate persistent, worsening, or painful symptoms.

Skin infections develop when germs or parasites enter the skin through tiny cuts, insect bites, or weak points in the skin’s natural barrier. Several factors increase the likelihood of developing an infection:

• Weakened immune system: Conditions like diabetes, cancer treatment, or immune disorders make it harder for the body to fight infections.
• Close contact with others: Living in close quarters, participating in contact sports, or sharing towels and personal items can spread infections.
• Warm, humid environments: Fungal infections are more common in hot, moist conditions, especially in locker rooms or public pools.
• Poor skin hygiene or injury: Cuts, scrapes, or failure to keep the skin clean may allow bacteria or fungi to enter.
• Age: Children and older adults may be more prone to certain skin infections due to weaker immune responses.

Skin infections can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Children often contract viral infections, such as warts and impetigo, through close contact in schools or daycare settings. Adults may be more likely to develop fungal infections, especially athletes or individuals who wear tight shoes or clothing. Older adults and those with chronic health conditions are more vulnerable to bacterial infections, such as cellulitis, which can spread quickly without treatment.

People with eczema, psoriasis, or other chronic skin conditions are also at higher risk because their skin barrier is already weakened, making it easier for germs to cause infection.

While some minor skin infections can resolve on their own with proper hygiene, many require medical treatment to prevent complications or spreading. You should seek care if:

• The infection is spreading quickly or getting worse
• You notice pus, drainage, or severe pain
• You develop a fever or feel unwell
• The infection is near sensitive areas such as the eyes or genitals
• Over-the-counter treatments have not worked