What type of bacteria commonly cause boils on the skin?

Boils on the skin are commonly caused by Staphylococcus bacteria, particularly Staphylococcus aureus. This type of bacteria is known for its ability to penetrate the skin through hair follicles or cuts and can cause localized infections, leading to the formation of pus-filled lumps. The characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus, including its resistance to certain environmental stresses and its capacity to produce enzymes and toxins, make it an effective pathogen for such skin infections.

In comparison, while other bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Streptococcus, and Bacillus are associated with various infections, they are not the primary causative agents for boils. E. coli typically causes gastrointestinal issues, Streptococcus is often linked to throat infections and skin wounds but not specifically boils, and Bacillus relates more to other types of infections or diseases. Therefore, Staphylococcus is the definitive answer when identifying the common bacterial cause of boils on the skin.