Skin abscesses are caused by bacteria that are normally present on the surface of the skin. The bacteria become trapped in sweat glands or hair follicles, or enter the skin through an injury. When the bacteria start to grow, the body forms an abscess as a means to fight the infection.

Injuries that may result in skin abscess include:

• Skin abrasion
• Skin laceration
• Skin puncture wound
• Skin foreign body