Do keep skin boils clean: The immune system needs to focus on the infection that’s already there. Adding more bacteria will make it harder to fight the infection. Don’t bother with antibacterial soaps and cleaners; any soap is fine.
Do cover it with clean, dry dressings: The idea is to contain any drainage. Boils are hotbeds of bacteria and easily spread to other areas and other people. Change dressings frequently, especially if it’s oozing. Seal dressings in a bag before throwing the away.
Do wash your hands: Anytime you touch a boil or change a dressing, wash your hands with warm water and soap. If you don’t have the ability to wash your hands completely with warm water and soap, alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used in a pinch.
Do place a warm, moist cloth on your boil: Heat encourages the formation of pus and might help the boil break, drain, and heal. Place a warm compress on the boil several times a day. Remember to use each cloth only once and wash it in hot water.