Abscess and Boils

A boil on skin is a painful, pus filled bump that forms when a hair follicle gets infected. An abscess is a larger, deeper pocket of pus. Small boils often drain on their own, but larger ones need to be opened and drained.

What Is It

Most boils and abscesses are caused by staph bacteria, including MRSA, entering through a hair follicle, cut, or scrape. They often show up on the armpits, groin, buttocks, thighs, neck, and face. A cluster of connected boils is called a carbuncle. Diabetes, a weak immune system, and close contact sports raise the risk.

Symptoms

A red, tender lump under the skin
Swelling that grows over a few days
A white or yellow center as pus collects
Warmth and throbbing pain
Pus or fluid draining from the bump
Fever or feeling unwell with a larger abscess

Not sure it’s a boil? A boil is a firm lump with pus at its center. A red, warm, spreading area of skin without a lump is more likely cellulitis.

Treatment

At your visit: A provider checks whether pus has collected under the skin. A larger abscess may need to be numbed and drained. The wound may be packed, and antibiotics may be used when infection is spreading.

At home:

Apply a warm, wet cloth for 15 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day
Do not squeeze, pop, or cut the boil
Cover it with a clean bandage once it drains
Wash your hands and do not share towels or razors

Small boils usually heal within 1 to 2 weeks. A drained abscess often feels better within a day or two.

When to Get Care for an Abscess or Boil

Watch at Home

A small boil that is starting to drain
Pain easing with warm compresses
No fever

Come to Urgent Care Today

A boil larger than a pea, or growing after 2 days
Severe pain or a lump that feels firm and swollen
Redness spreading around the boil
A boil on the face, spine, groin, or buttocks
Boils that keep coming back, or you have diabetes

Go to the Emergency Department

Red streaks spreading quickly from the area
High fever with chills, a racing heart, or confusion
A painful lump near the eye or nose with swelling of the face
Rapidly spreading redness with skin that turns dark or numb

FAQ

What is the difference between a boil and an abscess?

A boil is an infected hair follicle that forms a small pus filled bump. An abscess is a larger, deeper pocket of pus. Both are usually caused by staph bacteria.

How do I get rid of a boil fast?

The fastest way to get rid of a boil is a warm, wet compress 3 to 4 times a day to help it drain. Larger boils heal fastest when drained in the clinic.

Should I pop a boil?

Do not pop or squeeze a boil. Squeezing can push the infection deeper and spread it. A boil that needs draining should be opened with sterile tools.

Can a boil go away on its own?

A small boil often drains and heals on its own within 1 to 2 weeks. A larger boil or abscess usually needs to be drained to heal.

Can urgent care drain an abscess?

Yes, urgent care can drain most skin abscesses. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can numb and drain an abscess and decide if antibiotics are needed.

Is a boil contagious?

The bacteria in a boil can spread through pus, towels, razors, and close skin contact. Keep it covered and wash your hands after touching it.

Last reviewed October 2026