A small cut, scratch, or insect bite may seem harmless, and in most cases, the skin heals without complications. However, even a minor injury can sometimes allow bacteria to enter the body and cause an infection.
Knowing what to look for can help people recognize when an injury needs medical attention. While mild redness and tenderness can occur during normal healing, symptoms that worsen or spread should not be ignored.
The skin acts as a protective barrier, helping prevent bacteria and other microorganisms from entering the body. When the skin is broken by a scratch, thorn, cut, or insect bite, that barrier becomes less effective.
