If you’ve ever noticed an ugly spot on your arm, leg or face that won’t heal, you’re probably looking at a skin sore. These are breaks in the outer layer of skin that can be painful, itchy or just plain annoying. Most sores aren’t life‑threatening, but they can get worse if you ignore them. Below you’ll find easy ways to spot a problem early, simple steps to treat it at home, and clear signs when a doctor’s help is needed.
Skin sores show up for many reasons. The most common are cuts, scrapes or burns that get infected. Pressure sores appear on parts of the body that stay pressed against a hard surface – think elbows, heels or tailbone if you sit a lot. Other triggers include insect bites, allergic reactions, eczema flare‑ups and chronic conditions like diabetes that slow healing.
Even everyday habits can cause trouble. Wearing tight shoes, using harsh soaps or not keeping a wound clean can turn a small nick into a sore that lingers. In some cases, an underlying infection such as staph bacteria spreads under the skin, making the sore red, swollen and full of pus.
The first rule is to clean the area gently. Rinse with lukewarm water and a mild soap, then pat dry – don’t rub. Apply an over‑the‑counter antiseptic ointment like bacitracin or petroleum jelly to keep moisture in and protect against germs.
Cover the sore with a breathable bandage. Change it daily or whenever it gets wet or dirty. If you notice increasing redness, heat, swelling or a foul smell, that’s a sign of infection and you should see a doctor right away.
For pressure sores, shift your position often and use cushions or padded shoes to relieve pressure. People with diabetes need to check their feet daily because reduced sensation can hide small cuts until they become serious.
Good skin care helps prevent new sores. Keep skin moisturized, especially after a shower, and avoid harsh chemicals. If you have a chronic skin condition, follow your treatment plan and stay in touch with your dermatologist.
When home care isn’t enough, doctors can prescribe stronger antibiotics, dressings that release medication slowly, or even minor procedures to clean out the wound. Early medical help speeds up healing and reduces scarring.
In short, skin sores are usually easy to manage if you act fast. Clean, protect, and monitor – those three steps cover most everyday cases. Remember: if a sore doesn’t improve in a week or gets worse, don’t wait. Get professional advice and keep your skin healthy.
