What is a common sign of a skin infection?

A common sign of a skin infection is redness and swelling. This occurs as the body's immune response to an invader, such as bacteria or a virus, triggers inflammation in the affected area. The increased blood flow to the site, caused by the immune response, leads to the characteristic redness. Swelling is a result of fluid accumulation as white blood cells and other immune factors work to fight the infection. Consequently, the combination of redness and swelling serves as a visible indicator of potential infection, signaling the need for attention or treatment.

In contrast, dryness, itching, and flaking can be linked to various skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, rather than being definitive indicators of a skin infection. While these symptoms could accompany an infection in some cases, they are not the hallmark signs that primarily suggest an infectious process.