Natural Remedies for Chronic Skin Infections

Modified on Jul 13, 2025 | Deirdre Layne

Chronic skin infections can be painful, persistent, and frustrating to treat. Whether bacterial, fungal, or viral in origin, many individuals seek natural remedies to support healing and prevent recurrence. This article highlights the top evidence-based home treatments and herbal solutions that have helped Earth Clinic readers manage long-term skin infections effectively.

Common Types of Chronic Skin Infections

  • Bacterial: Staph infections, impetigo, folliculitis
  • Fungal: Ringworm, athlete’s foot, candidiasis
  • Viral: Herpes simplex, shingles, molluscum contagiosum

Top Natural Remedies for Skin Infections

1. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a powerful natural antiseptic and antifungal. It is effective against a wide range of pathogens, especially Staphylococcus aureus and Candida species.

  • Dilute 2–3 drops of tea tree oil in a tablespoon of coconut oil or aloe vera gel
  • Apply 2–3 times daily to the affected area

2. Colloidal Silver

Colloidal silver has antimicrobial properties and is often used as a topical spray or gel. It helps prevent bacterial growth and soothes inflamed skin. For deeper infections or wounds, some users apply it under a dressing to keep the area moist and disinfected throughout the day.

  • Use a high-quality 10–20 ppm colloidal silver spray
  • Spray directly on clean, dry skin 2–4 times per day

3. Manuka Honey

Manuka honey has both antibacterial and wound-healing properties, making it especially helpful for skin ulcers and recurring infections.

  • Apply a thin layer of medical-grade Manuka honey to the infection
  • Cover with gauze or a breathable bandage and change daily

4. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a natural antifungal and antibacterial agent. It helps balance skin pH and reduce microbial growth.

  • Mix 1 part ACV with 2 parts water
  • Soak a cotton pad and apply to the area for 5–10 minutes twice a day

5. Garlic Extract

Garlic contains allicin, a potent antimicrobial compound that can fight stubborn skin infections when applied topically or taken internally.

  • Crush raw garlic and mix with coconut oil for topical use (do a patch test first)
  • Alternatively, take aged garlic extract capsules daily for immune support

6. Oregano Oil

Oregano oil is one of the most potent natural antibiotics. It has strong antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal effects.

  • For topical use, dilute 1 drop of oregano oil in a teaspoon of carrier oil
  • Apply twice a day to infected skin; avoid use on broken skin

7. Activated Charcoal Poultice

Activated charcoal is known for its powerful ability to draw out toxins, bacteria, and impurities from the skin. It is especially effective for abscesses, boils, and stubborn bacterial infections.

  • Mix activated charcoal powder with ground flaxseed and water to form a paste
  • Spread on a clean cloth or gauze and apply directly to the infection
  • Secure with a bandage and leave on for 4–6 hours or overnight
  • Change daily or as needed

8. Zinc Cream

Zinc oxide cream is widely used for its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory effects. It forms a protective barrier on the skin and promotes healing, making it ideal for irritated, infected, or slow-healing skin conditions.

  • Apply a thin layer of zinc oxide cream (20–40%) directly to the affected area
  • Use twice daily or after cleaning the skin
  • Look for unscented, chemical-free formulations for sensitive skin

Zinc also helps dry out weeping infections and reduces itching and redness, especially in conditions like impetigo or fungal rashes.

Internal Support for Chronic Skin Infections

Addressing the root causes of chronic skin infections often requires supporting the immune system and gut health.

  • Probiotics: Restore beneficial bacteria to improve skin and gut immunity
  • Vitamin C and Zinc: Essential for collagen production and immune defense
  • Turmeric: Natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial; take with black pepper for absorption

Lifestyle Tips to Prevent Recurrence

  • Practice good hygiene and avoid reusing towels on infected areas
  • Support liver detox with dandelion or milk thistle tea
  • Avoid refined sugar, which feeds pathogenic bacteria and yeast
  • Keep skin moisturized with aloe vera or calendula cream

When to Seek Medical Help

Natural remedies can be highly effective, but consult your healthcare provider if:

  • The infection worsens or spreads rapidly
  • You experience fever, chills, or swollen lymph nodes
  • There is no improvement after 7–10 days of treatment

Conclusion

Chronic skin infections often reflect an underlying imbalance in the body or repeated exposure to microbes. These natural remedies, combined with internal support and good hygiene, can help clear persistent infections and prevent future flare-ups.

Keep reading below to see which natural remedies have helped our readers find lasting relief from chronic skin infections, and be sure to share your own experience!

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