Skin: buni, an-an, pigsa and other common problems
Heat, humidity and sweat make some skin problems very common in the Philippines. Ringworm (buni) and tinea versicolor (an-an) are fungal infections that antifungal creams usually clear; steroid creams on their own can make them worse. A boil (pigsa) is a painful lump of pus under the skin that often heals with warm compresses.
See a doctor for a boil on the face, a skin problem that keeps coming back, a rash that spreads fast, or skin that is red, hot and swollen with a fever. If you have diabetes, get skin infections checked early.
The guides below explain how to recognise each problem, the treatments that work, the free medicines available through PhilHealth, and when to get help from a health worker.
3 guidesUpdated November 1, 2026
In an emergency, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911. Call 911
Guides on this topic
Ringworm (buni): causes and treatment
Ringworm, or buni, is a common skin infection caused by a fungus, not a worm. It usually looks like an itchy, scaly ring with clearer skin in the middle. Most ringworm on the body clears with an antifungal cream used for a few weeks, even after the rash fades. Avoid steroid or all-in-one creams, which can make it worse. Scalp ringworm, and buni that does not improve in 2 weeks, need a doctor.
Boils (pigsa): home care and when to see a doctor
A boil (pigsa) is a painful, pus-filled lump caused by bacteria infecting a hair follicle. Most boils burst, drain and heal within about 2 weeks with warm compresses. Never squeeze or prick a boil. See a doctor if it is on your face, you have a fever, the redness spreads, you have diabetes, or boils keep coming back, so a doctor can check for diabetes and other causes.
Tinea versicolor (an-an): white spots, treatment and prevention
Tinea versicolor, called an-an in the Philippines, is a common skin condition caused by a yeast that normally lives on everyone's skin. It causes flat patches, usually lighter than the skin around them, on the chest, back, neck and arms. It does not spread to others and is not a sign of being dirty. Pharmacy antifungal shampoos or creams usually clear it, but the color can take months to return, and an-an often comes back in hot weather.
Common questions
Each answer is in the guide it links to.
Questions about your own situation?
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