Skin Infection Treatment in Phoenix
Advanced, compassionate care to restore your skin’s health and comfort.
Skin Infections: Diagnosis, Causes & Expert Treatment
Your skin is your body’s largest organ and the first line of defense against external threats. Despite its protective role, it is still vulnerable to a wide range of skin infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. Some infections are mild and self-limited, while others can become serious and require medical attention.
At Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group, our board-certified dermatologists specialize in diagnosing and treating acute and chronic skin infections, helping patients regain healthy, protected skin.
What are Skin Infections?
Skin infections occur when microorganisms invade the skin and begin to multiply. These infections may involve the superficial layers of the skin, deeper tissues, hair follicles, or nails. They may cause redness, swelling, itching, pain, pus, or blistering, depending on the type and severity.
Common Types of Skin Infections
1. Bacterial Skin Infections
Caused most often by Staphylococcus (Staph) or Streptococcus (Strep), these infections can be contagious and range from mild to potentially life-threatening.
Common Bacterial Infections:
- Cellulitis – A painful, red infection that spreads in the deeper skin layers
- Skin abscesses (Furuncles/Boils) – Painful, pus-filled lumps under the skin
- Folliculitis – Infected hair follicles appearing as red or white pimples
- Impetigo – Highly contagious blisters and yellow scabs, often in children
- MRSA – Antibiotic-resistant staph infection that can spread quickly
- Necrotizing Fasciitis – A severe "flesh-eating" infection requiring emergency care
2. Viral Skin Infections
Viral skin infections are easily spread through skin-to-skin contact or respiratory droplets.
Common Viral Infections:
- Cold sores – Caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV)
- Shingles – Reactivation of the chickenpox virus, causing a painful blistering rash
- Chickenpox – Itchy, red blisters, now rare due to vaccination
- Warts – Caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), often on hands, feet, or genitals
- Molluscum contagiosum – Small, dome-shaped bumps caused by a poxvirus
- Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease (HFMD) – Blisters on hands, feet, and mouth, mostly in children
- Measles – Highly contagious rash with respiratory symptoms
3. Fungal Skin Infections
Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist environments and are often spread through skin contact, shared surfaces, or infected soil.
Common Fungal Infections:
- Ringworm (Tinea corporis) – Red, circular rash that spreads easily
- Athlete’s foot (Tinea pedis) – Itchy, peeling skin between toes
- Jock itch (Tinea cruris) – Red rash in groin and inner thighs
- Tinea capitis – Scalp infection that may cause hair loss
- Onychomycosis – Fungal infection of fingernails or toenails
- Tinea versicolor – Causes discolored, scaly patches on the torso
4. Parasitic Skin Infections
These are caused by infestations of skin parasites, including:
- Scabies (mites) – Itchy rash caused by burrowing mites
- Lice – Tiny insects infesting scalp or body hair
- Bedbugs – Cause red, itchy bite marks often in clusters
Who’s at Risk for Skin Infections?
While anyone can develop a skin infection, certain factors increase susceptibility:
- Eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis
- Weakened immune system
- Diabetes or metabolic disorders
- Skin trauma or open wounds
- Close-contact sports or shared personal items
- Poor hygiene or humid climates
Diagnosis of Skin Infections
At your consultation, your board-certified dermatologist will:
- Review your
medical history and symptoms
- Perform a
skin examination
- Conduct
cultures or biopsies, if needed, to identify the organism
Timely diagnosis is essential to prevent complications and spread to others.
Treatment Options for Skin Infections
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the infection:
For Bacterial Infections:
- Topical or oral antibiotics
- Drainage of abscesses or boils
- Wound care and antiseptic dressings
For Viral Infections:
- Antiviral medications (e.g., acyclovir for herpes)
- Symptom relief with topical creams and pain control
For Fungal Infections:
- Topical antifungals
- Oral antifungals for nail or scalp involvement
- Proper hygiene and moisture control
For Parasitic Infections:
- Prescription creams or shampoos (e.g., permethrin for scabies or lice)
- Environmental decontamination
Frequently Asked Questions About Skin Infections
Are all skin infections contagious?
Not all, but many bacterial, viral, and fungal infections can be spread through contact, especially when lesions are open or oozing.
Can skin infections go away on their own?
Some mild infections resolve naturally, but many require medical treatment to avoid complications or spread.
What are the warning signs of a serious infection?
Rapid swelling, fever, red streaks, pus, severe pain, or systemic symptoms require immediate medical attention.
How can I prevent skin infections?
Maintain good hygiene, avoid sharing personal items, treat wounds promptly, and manage chronic skin conditions like eczema or acne.
When should I see a dermatologist?
If an infection worsens, recurs, or doesn’t improve with over-the-counter treatment, consult a board-certified dermatologist for accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.
Get Expert Care for Skin Infections in Phoenix, AZ
If you’re dealing with a rash, sore, boil, or skin outbreak, don’t wait for it to worsen. The team at Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group offers advanced diagnostics and evidence-based treatment for all types of skin infections. Whether it's a minor rash or a complex bacterial infection, our dermatologists are here to help.
Schedule your appointment today for personalized care and rapid relief from skin infections.
