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Blisters form when the top layer of skin (epidermis) separates from the layers beneath. This often occurs due to friction or heat, but certain skin conditions or other medical issues can also cause blisters. The fluid between the skin layers, called serum, creates the bubble-like appearance of a blister. Blisters heal faster when they remain intact because the outer layer of skin prevents bacteria from entering and reduces inflammation. However, blisters can sometimes burst on their own. A ruptured or torn blister can be unsightly and painful, requiring careful care to avoid infection. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to treat a ruptured blister and monitor its healing process.
Steps
Treating a Blister
Wash your hands thoroughly. Use a mild antibacterial soap and warm water to clean your hands before touching the blister. Scrub your hands for about 15-20 seconds.
- This helps prevent bacteria from causing an infection in the blister.
Clean the blister with mild soap and water. Avoid scrubbing the blister to prevent tearing the skin.
- Do not use alcohol, iodine, or hydrogen peroxide as these can irritate the skin.
Allow the blister to dry. Let it air dry naturally or gently pat it with a towel. Avoid rubbing the blister with the towel, as this may tear the skin.
Do not remove the raised skin. The top layer of the blister will peel off but helps protect the underlying skin as it heals. If possible, leave the skin intact and allow the area beneath to heal.
- If the blister has burst or has debris under the skin, clean it to prevent infection, which could worsen the blister and damage the new skin underneath.
- First, clean the area around the blister. Then, sterilize a small pair of scissors (nail scissors or medical scissors work) with rubbing alcohol. Alternatively, you can sterilize the scissors by boiling them in water for 20 minutes or heating them over a flame until the tips turn red and then letting them cool.
- Carefully trim away the dead skin. Avoid cutting too close to the new skin. It’s better to leave a bit of skin than to cause further damage.
Apply an antibacterial ointment or cream to the blister. This helps prevent infection, which is a risk for ruptured blisters.
- Common over-the-counter antibacterial ointments or creams include Neosporin and “triple antibiotic ointment,” both of which contain neomycin, polymyxin, and bacitracin.
Cover the blister with a bandage. For small blisters, a regular bandage will suffice, but for larger blisters, you may need non-stick gauze with medical tape.
- Remember to use non-stick bandages and gauze for open blisters. Regular gauze can stick to the skin!
- Hydrocolloid bandages can promote faster healing. These bandages adhere to the skin but not to the blister.
Use specialized bandages for fresh or painful blisters. If the skin over the blister has peeled off or if the blister is on your foot or another sensitive area, you’ll need a bandage specifically designed for blisters.
- There are various types of blister pads with special cushioning, primarily for sensitive skin.
- You can also use moleskin patches for blisters. Moleskin is a soft adhesive material. Cut two pieces slightly larger than your blister. Create a circular cutout in one piece that matches the blister’s size. Apply the cutout piece over the blister, ensuring the “breathing space” aligns with the blister. Then, place the second piece on top.
- Avoid liquid bandages, as they are better suited for cuts or tears and may irritate or infect blisters.
- If unsure, consult a pharmacist or doctor for specific advice.
Caring for a Ruptured Blister
Change the blister bandage regularly. It’s best to replace the bandage daily or whenever it becomes wet or dirty. Each time you change it, gently clean the blister and reapply antibiotic ointment.
- Continue using the bandage until the blister has fully healed.
Manage itching as the blister heals. Blisters often itch during the healing process, especially as they dry, but it’s important not to scratch to avoid further damage. Keeping the blister cool and dry can reduce itching. Soak a clean cloth in ice water and apply it to the healing area or soak in a cold bath.
- Remember to clean the blister, apply antibiotic ointment, and cover it with a fresh bandage.
- If the skin around the bandage becomes red, rough, or itchy, you may be allergic to the adhesive. Switch to a different type or use sterile non-stick gauze and medical tape. Apply 1% hydrocortisone cream to the irritated skin around the blister to reduce itching, but avoid applying it directly to the blister.
Remove the loose skin once the wound is no longer painful. When the skin beneath the blister has healed and is no longer tender, you can carefully trim away the loose skin using sterilized scissors.
Watch for signs of infection. Ruptured blisters are prone to infection, so handle them with care as they heal. If you notice signs of infection or if the blister doesn’t heal within a few days, consult a doctor. Signs of infection include:
- Increasing pain around the blister.
- Swelling, redness, or a burning sensation in the blister area.
- Red streaks on the skin near the blister, indicating possible blood poisoning.
- Pus draining from the blister.
- Fever
Seek medical attention for blisters. Many blisters heal naturally over time. However, there are cases where you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Seek immediate medical care if your blister:
- Shows signs of infection (refer to the previous step for symptoms).
- Causes significant pain.
- Recurs frequently.
- Appears in unusual places like inside the mouth or on the eyelids.
- Is caused by heat, such as sunburn or burns.
- Results from an allergic reaction (e.g., insect bites).
Preventing Blisters
Wear properly fitting shoes. Friction is a common cause of blisters, especially on the feet. Wearing well-fitted shoes can reduce the likelihood of blisters forming.
- You can also use moleskin pads or specialized blister patches in areas prone to rubbing, such as the heel.
Wear thick socks to prevent blisters on your feet. Moisture-wicking socks are ideal, as blisters often form when the skin is damp.
- You can also protect your feet by wearing long socks if regular socks don’t suit your outfit.
Keep your skin dry. Blisters often form on damp skin. You can purchase gels or creams designed to reduce friction on areas prone to blistering. These products help keep the skin dry and minimize rubbing.
- Try using talc-free baby powder or foot powder in your shoes and socks. Avoid talc-based powders, as some studies suggest they may be carcinogenic. Some powders also have deodorizing properties.
- You can also experiment with shoe sprays to reduce sweating.
Wear gloves. Wearing gloves, especially during manual labor like manufacturing, gardening, or construction, can prevent blisters on your hands.
- Gloves are also recommended for activities like weightlifting, which can cause blisters on the hands.
Be sun-smart. Severe sunburn can also lead to blisters. Protect your skin by wearing appropriate clothing, a hat, and applying sunscreen.
- Blisters are a sign of second-degree sunburn and can take 10-21 days to heal.
