Boils (furuncles) can occur in babies, though they are more common in older children and adults. A boil is a common skin infection that forms a painful, red lump beneath the skin’s surface. This infection occurs when bacteria infects a hair follicle or an oil gland, leading to a localized collection of pus and dead tissue. Understanding how to identify and manage a boil, and knowing when to seek medical help, is important for caregivers.
How to Recognize a Boil
A boil typically begins as a small, tender red bump that may initially resemble a mosquito bite or a large pimple. Over a few days, the bump increases in size and becomes noticeably more painful and warm to the touch. This swelling is the body’s immune response fighting the bacterial invader, which results in the formation of pus inside the lesion.
The tell-tale sign that distinguishes a boil is the development of a white or yellow center, often called the “head,” as the pus collects just beneath the skin. This head indicates the boil is ready to drain, though it should never be forced open. Boils are most frequently found in areas prone to friction and sweating, such as the face, neck, armpits, thighs, and the buttocks or diaper area.
Why Boils Develop in Infants
The primary cause of a boil is an infection of the hair follicle, most often by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus (staph). This bacteria is commonly present on the skin of many healthy people, but it causes an infection when it gains entry through a break in the skin barrier.
Minor skin abrasions, like small cuts, scrapes, or insect bites, create an entry point for the bacteria to infect the hair follicle. Conditions that compromise the skin’s integrity, such as eczema or severe diaper rash, also make infants more vulnerable. Areas of the body that experience constant friction from clothing or diapers, or those that are frequently sweaty, provide an ideal environment for the bacteria to thrive.
Safe Home Treatment Methods
For a small, simple boil, home care focuses on encouraging it to come to a head and drain naturally. The most effective home treatment involves the consistent application of a warm compress. A clean washcloth soaked in warm water and applied to the boil for 20 to 30 minutes, three to four times a day, can help the boil soften and eventually drain.
Resist the impulse to squeeze, poke, or try to pop the boil. Squeezing can push the infection deeper into the skin or spread the bacteria, potentially causing a more serious infection. If the boil bursts and drains on its own, gently wipe away the pus, wash the area with soap and water, and cover it with a sterile bandage. Strict handwashing before and after touching the boil is necessary to prevent contagion.
Critical Signs to Watch For
While most boils resolve with home care, certain signs indicate the infection is worsening and requires medical attention. One concerning sign is the presence of a fever, which suggests the infection may be spreading beyond the localized area. If the redness or swelling around the boil spreads rapidly outward, this may signal a more serious condition called cellulitis.
Other warning signs include a boil that is growing quickly, becomes very painful, or does not show improvement after several days of warm compress application. If the boil is located on the baby’s face, especially near the eyes or nose, or if multiple boils appear suddenly, a healthcare provider should be consulted. A doctor can determine if the boil needs professional draining or if an antibiotic is necessary to clear the infection.