Skin Infections: Causes, Treatments, and What You Need to Know

When your skin breaks down—whether from a cut, rash, or irritation—it’s not just uncomfortable, it’s vulnerable. skin infections, invasive conditions caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that affect the outer layers of the skin. Also known as cutaneous infections, they’re one of the most common reasons people visit a doctor or search for relief online. You might think of them as just a rash or itch, but left untreated, some can spread, get worse, or even lead to hospitalization.

Not all skin infections are the same. bacterial skin infections, often caused by staph or strep bacteria, can appear as red, swollen, painful areas that may ooze or form blisters. Think of impetigo in kids or cellulitis in adults—both need antibiotics. Then there’s fungal skin infections, like athlete’s foot or ringworm, which thrive in warm, moist areas and cause flaky, itchy patches. These respond to antifungal treatments, not antibiotics. And sometimes, you get both: inflammation from a fungus and a secondary bacterial infection. That’s where combinations like Candid B Lotion, a topical treatment combining a steroid (beclometasone) and an antifungal (clotrimazole) to reduce swelling and kill fungus at the same time. come in handy.

What makes skin infections tricky is how easily they’re misdiagnosed. A dry patch might be eczema. A red bump could be a bug bite. But if it spreads, itches more, or doesn’t improve with lotion, it’s probably an infection. Topical steroids like beclometasone help with itching and swelling, but they won’t kill germs. That’s why using them alone on a fungal infection can make things worse. You need the right combo—or the right single agent.

Some people try to treat these at home with over-the-counter creams, but not all products are created equal. You might buy something labeled "antifungal" that’s too weak, or worse, use a steroid cream for weeks without knowing it’s hiding a deeper problem. That’s why knowing the difference between bacterial, fungal, and viral causes matters. And why understanding how medications like clotrimazole or beclometasone work together—or separately—is key to real relief.

Below, you’ll find real guides that break down exactly what works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid common mistakes. From comparing Candid B Lotion to other antifungal creams, to understanding when a steroid is safe and when it’s risky, these posts give you the facts—not the fluff. No jargon. No guesswork. Just clear, practical info to help you treat your skin infection the right way.