By Lettecha Johnson
Infections of the skin are a common health concern all over the world, thanks to bacteria, fungi, or viruses. You may avoid infections from ringworm to Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) by practicing good hygiene, avoiding sharing personal items, and keeping the skin moisturized. Always seek medical attention if these skin conditions are followed by spreading redness and associated high fevers.
A 2024 study by Wang, Sun, Wang, et al., published in Frontiers in Epidemiology, reported an increase of roughly 68% of Fungal Skin Disease (FSD) worldwide since 1990. The occurrence of these incidents is increasing among older people, possibly due to aging immune systems, natural age-related skin breakdowns, and underlying chronic conditions. However, people of all ages are at risk, but daily rituals, from regular handwashing to being mindful of personal contact, can help protect the body’s largest organ.
What Are Common Causes of Skin Infections?
Some can develop infections of the skin when parasites or bacteria enter through cracks or punctures. A weak immune system or a bug bite can start the problem.
Bacteria
A bacterial skin infection results from a pathogen, with the most common one being Staphylococcus aureus (present in roughly 66% of cultured cases), breaking through the skin surface. MRSA stands for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and is a staph bacterium that can resist many common antibiotics.
If skin feels warm to the touch and is red or swollen, it may be cellulitis. When it’s oozing red sores, the condition may be impetigo.
Athlete’s foot and ringworm are fungal skin infections.
Parasites
Tiny insects and other organisms can burrow into your skin to lay eggs or live on the body, particularly in hair. Lice are insects that can infest the head or pubic hair. Scabies is caused by microscopic mites that dig into your skin and create a very itchy rash.
Virus
If you’re infected by a virus, it can reveal itself on the skin by various localized growths. One of the most common examples is the herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores and fever blisters.
Chickenpox and shingles are caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which results in a painful, blistering rash. The human papillomaviruses (HPV) can cause various non-cancerous warts.
How Can I Reduce the Risk?
Be mindful of how often your body comes in contact with others or surfaces that other people may touch. When taking public showers at places such as the gym, always wear shower shoes.
Never share things like:
- Towels
- Razors
- Bar soap
- Athletic equipment
- Shoes
Being extra hygienic keeps the skin clean, so frequently wash your hands for at least 20 seconds in hot water. Don’t forget to bathe as soon as possible after exercise or excessive sweating.
Properly Care for Chronic Conditions
If you have underlying conditions, from diabetes to immune system disorders, your skin is more susceptible to developing an infection. Therefore, be very vigilant about checking for open wounds, cuts, or abrasions.
Even psoriasis or acne can disrupt your skin’s natural protective barrier. Maintaining good circulation helps keep blood flowing to promote wound healing and deliver infection-fighting cells where needed.
Hydration for Barrier Protection
Continuously protect your skin from the inside out with regular hydration. Drinking water and topical moisturization are vital to protecting the skin barrier, as cracked skin can act as an entry point for bacteria and fungi to grow.
Electrolytes help in absorbing and maintaining fluids for better skin health. You can add fortified electrolyte powders to your water to counteract daily loss.
However, according to Healthline, you can also get additional hydration from:
- Coconut water
- Watermelon juice
- Smoothies
Coconut water is a great choice for a natural electrolyte drink as it’s low in sugar. It also has sodium and magnesium.
What Are Some Treatments for Skin Infections?
The types of skin infection and severity determine the best care. There are athletes foot medications for this common fungal condition, but you may need shampoos containing parasiticides for lice.
Topical creams or oral medication may be needed. Sometimes, your doctor may need to perform minor drainage procedures.
Some home remedies include gently cleansing the infected area and using elevation and cold compresses to reduce inflammation. If you have folliculitis, a warm compress can help drain the boils and soothe the follicle infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Tell if a Skin Infection Is Fungal or Bacterial?
In many cases, a fungal skin infection may appear as circular scaly patches. It may have a clearly defined and raised red border, such as ringworm. The skin may be flaky, cracked, and peeling, accompanied by intense itching or burning.
When the skin condition is caused by bacteria, it may often appear more swollen and ooze pus or form painful boils. If the accompanying infection gets worse, a patient may also experience fever or chills.
What Kills Bacterial Skin Infections?
If you’ve been diagnosed with a bacterial skin infection, you can expect to take antibiotics. A superficial rash may soon heal with the use of over-the-counter or prescription antibacterial ointment. However, you may need oral or intravenous ones during a severe infection.
Always consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. If you decide to try home remedies at first, go to a doctor if you have other symptoms, such as the infection spreading and or other health issues, such as chills and fever. You should also look out for red streaks spreading outward from the affected area.
Infections of the Skin Are Preventable
Many people are dealing with infections of the skin due to exposure to bacteria, fungus, or parasites. The best way to handle these issues is to prevent them through solid hygiene and not sharing personal items with people.
If you have a skin condition, monitor it and keep it as clean and protected as possible. Get in touch with a medical professional if any signs of infection spread, such as pain or fever. Protect your largest organ with proactive care from bathing to hydration so you can avoid this ongoing global issue.
If you’re looking for more skin care and healthcare tips, review other articles on our website.
