Boils are ugly, gross, and have a bad habit of leaving scars. Not to mention multiple heads and are a pain in the butt to get rid of. Thankfully their are some things you can do to make things go along a little easier.

If the boil is having a hard time coming to a head, the easiest way to get it where you need it is to place a warm, wet compress three to four times a day for about 30 minutes at a time. You’ll want to continue doing this even after it has broken because it will help the boil to continue draining.

Once your boil is to a head, unless it’s really bad, you can break it yourself using a needle. Sterilize it first then lightly prick the head of the boil. That should be enough to get it started. You’ll also want to use over the counter antibiotic ointment as well as the warm, wet compress to keep it draining.

Beware, though. If it is really bad, or has red lines coming from it, you need to see a doctor. Also, persistent boils may actually be a symptom of serious illness so if you’re suffering from boils more than average, you may need to speak to a doctor.