A "boil" is a painful, pus-filled bump that forms on the skin when bacteria infect a hair follicle. It usually starts as a red, swollen area and can grow larger over time. Boils can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the face, neck, armpits, and thighs. They can be caused by factors like poor hygiene, friction, or underlying health issues. To treat a boil, it's important to keep the area clean and avoid squeezing it, as this can spread the infection. Applying a warm compress can help reduce pain and encourage drainage. In some cases, a doctor may need to drain the boil or prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection.