While a wet towel is best, you could also use a warm pack wrapped in a towel for a similar effect. If the boil is in a hard to reach spot, try taking a warm bath instead of trying to hold a compress against it.
You can tell that the treatment is working when you start to see a white spot in the middle of the boil. This is the pus coming to the surface.
Don’t use harsh antiseptics like alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. These can irritate the area and cause more pain.
You’ll probably be tempted to squeeze the boil when it starts draining, but resist that urge. You could end up pushing the pus deeper into your skin and making the infection worse. The boil might look a bit more irritated and red right after it starts draining because the skin is broken. However, it should start shrinking within a few days as the pus drains. If the inflammation doesn’t clear up in a few days, you might have an infection, so see your doctor for an exam.
Always follow the dosage instructions that come with each medication. Different brands or types may have different instructions.
Make sure the area is dry before you cover it. Moisture can help bacteria grow. If you use a sticky bandage, make sure only the non-sticky part touches the boil. Otherwise, it could rupture when you pull the bandage off.
Also change the bandage any time it gets wet or blood soaks through it.
Don’t scrub the area with a towel, either to wash or dry the boil. This will cause more inflammation. Only dab it gently.
If you have trouble leaving the boil alone, try keeping a bandage or gauze over it at all times. This can prevent your urge to touch it. If you do accidentally scratch or pick at the boil, wash the area and your hands as soon as possible.
If you have sensitive skin, witch hazel could cause excessive dryness. If you experience any irritation, try making a 50% witch hazel-50% water solution to dilute it.
If you notice any increased inflammation or pain, stop using the oil right away. You may be sensitive to it. Never use undiluted tea tree oil. Undiluted oils could be toxic. [15] X Research source
Some creams and ointments also contain arnica. You can use a cream with a 15% concentration of arnica oil to treat the boil as well. Never ingest arnica. It’s toxic if swallowed. Don’t use arnica on broken skin. If the boil pops or starts draining, then stop using the oil.
Talk to your doctor before you go to an emergency room as you may be at risk of exposure to MRSA at a hospital.
They may prescribe a cream that can help get rid of the boil. Your doctor may decide to lance the boil themselves.
Boils on your spine can accidentally rupture while you sleep. See your doctor for treatment.
Even a low-grade fever could be a sign of an infection.
