Fluid and pus fill underneath the skin, causing a small lump (viaWebMD).

An abscess triggers when bacteria spread to the deeper tissue under the skin.

Unlike a boil, it may not necessarily occur around a hair follicle.

Woman checking her face

Cysticacneand eye styes are common types of abscesses.

People with compromised immune systems may be more prone to boils and abscesses.

As it drains, apply a clean dressing, and keep the wound covered until the skin heals.

Injection on skin abscess

Never venture to squeeze a boil or abscess; this can make the infection worse.

However, none of these has been medically proven to drain or heal a boil.

The warm-compress remedy is the safest and easiest method of draining a simple boil, advisesGreatist.

More complicated cases need professional care.

Treat cuts and scrapes promptly by washing with soap and water and applying a clean bandage.