Boils are also known as furuncles.  These are much different than acne lesions although the two may be confused at times.  Boils appear as large, red, tender nodules that may drain pus intermittently.  They may be found anywhere on the body but common areas are around the buttock and above the pubic area. With boils, sometimes the infection may extend deep down into the hair follicle.  The Staph. Aureus bacteria is the usual culprit but not necessarily the only bacteria responsible.  For lesions that don’t self-resolve with warm compresses and topical antimicrobial ointments, a course of oral antibiotics and/or excision for drainage may be performed by your physician.

Generally, boils will develop over a short period of time and are much more inflamed and tender than nodular, cystic acne.  If a person doesn’t usually experience acne, it is more likely that the lesions are furuncles.  Location of boils and cystic acne will also help determine the difference between the two.  When in doubt, seek medical advice.

To learn more about Los Angeles and Orange County acne laser treatment, visit http://www.celibre.com/acne.aspx.  

Contact Celibre Medical in our Los Angeles or Orange County office for a free acne laser treatment consultation, www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.  

Laser Acne Treatment Los Angeles by Celibre Medical.   More before and after photos of Los Angeles laser acne treatment patients go to www.celibre.com/acneba.aspx.

Boils                                            Cystic Acne

Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C

Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer