Bacteria is likely getting into small breaks in the skin, where is shouldn't be.
Terri
By the way do you know what causes this to happen besides it just being a skin infection?
These are not herpes, but they are a skin infection. You actually describe something quite common, and I'm sure your regular health care provider or better, a dermatologist, could provide treatment for these that will be effective and long lasting. Please set up an appointment to have this taken care of, I think you've lived with it long enough!
Terri