As abscesses inside the body tend to occur as a complication of another condition, there is nothing you can do to prevent them. However, the following advice may help you to prevent skin abscesses developing.
Look after your skin
Ensuring that your skin is clean, healthy, and free of bacteria can help to reduce the risk of skin abscesses developing. You should wash your skin at least once a day using water and soap.
You should also take care when shaving your face, legs, underarms, or bikini area, to avoid nicking your skin. Clean any wounds immediately and visit your GP, or local NHS walk-in centre if you think there may be something trapped in your skin.
Eat healthily
Eating a diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals can help your immune system to work properly and fight off infection. Fruit and vegetables are high in vitamins and minerals, and you should aim to eat at least five portions a day.
Lose weight if you are overweight or obese
If you are overweight, or obese, you may be more at risk of developing skin abscesses due to bacteria that is found naturally on your body becoming trapped in the folds of your skin.
You are also at greater risk of developing diabetes, which in turn will increase the likelihood of skin abscesses developing.
Do not smoke
Smoking damages your entire body, and can affect your immune system’s ability to fight infection. If you smoke, giving up is the best thing that you can do for your general health.
See the 'useful links' section for further information and advice about eating healthily, losing weight, and giving up smoking.
