One of the most effective home remedies for cysts and abscesses is to apply a warm, wet cloth to the affected region for 20 minutes at a time many times each day. This may relieve pain, increase infection-fighting antibodies and white blood cells, and aid in wound healing. Be sure not to use anything other than clean, cold water for cleaning your child's body because alcohol or hot showers can be harmful or even life-threatening if used incorrectly. Home remedies such as these can help reduce a person's need for surgery while still giving their body a good chance to heal itself. It is important to seek medical attention if there is no improvement after trying some home remedies. A health care professional may recommend antibiotics if infections are present.