Your skin is the largest organ of your body. Its function is to protect your body from infection. Sometimes the skin itself becomes infected. Skin infections are caused by a wide variety of germs, and symptoms can vary from mild to serious. Mild infections may be treatable with over-the-counter medications and home remedies, whereas other infections may require medical attention. Read on to learn more about skin infections and what to do if you have one.
What are the types of skin infections?
The following are four different types of skin infections:
1. Bacterial Skin Infections
Bacterial skin infections often begin as small, red bumps that slowly increase in size. Some bacterial infections are mild and easily treated with topical antibiotics, but other infections require an oral antibiotic. Different types of bacterial skin infections include:
- Cellulitis
- Impetigo
- Boils
- Leprosy
2. Viral Skin Infections
Viral skin infections are caused by a virus. These infections range from mild to severe. Different types of viral infections include:
- Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
- Chickenpox
- Molluscum Contagiosum
- Warts
- Measles
- Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease
3. Fungal Skin Infections
These types of skin infections are caused by a fungus and are most likely to develop in damp areas of the body, such as the feet or armpit. Some fungal infections aren’t contagious, and these infections are typically non-life-threatening.
Different types of fungal infections:
- Athlete’s Foot
- Yeast Infection
- Ringworm
- Nail Fungus
- Oral Thrush
- Diaper Rash