How to Heal Blisters

Blisters can form due to friction or repeated movements, such as running in shoes that don't fit properly. Sunburn or other types of burns can also lead to blisters. To treat blisters, protect the affected area and consider using some natural remedies. If the blister is large or painful, you may need to drain it. Performing first aid carefully can help heal the blister in most cases.

Do not disturb the blister. If the blister hasn't burst, try to avoid touching it. It's better to prevent bacteria from entering by letting the wound heal naturally without breaking the blister open.

Soak the injured area in warm water. This is a simple treatment. Use a clean basin or tub with enough warm water to submerge the blistered skin (such as on your hand or foot). Soak for 15 minutes. The warm water will soften the top layer of skin over the blister, helping the wound to dry naturally.

Pad the blistered area with moleskin. If the blister is in a pressure point, such as on the bottom of the foot, pad the area with a piece of moleskin. This is a soft cotton fabric, often with an adhesive backing. It will make you more comfortable while also protecting the blister.

• Cut a piece of moleskin slightly larger than the blister. Cut a hole in the center so the patch fits around the blister like a donut. Apply it.
• You may also try other bandages, such as Blist-O-Ban or Elastikon.

Allow the wound to breathe. For most blisters, especially small ones, air circulation helps the wound heal faster. Let the wound breathe. If the blister is on your foot, be careful not to let dirt accumulate around it.

• You might only be able to remove the bandage or covering at night while you sleep. Let the blister breathe freely throughout the night while you rest.

Apply aloe vera gel. Aloe vera has many healing properties, including reducing pain and inflammation. Use aloe vera gel to speed up blister healing. Cover the area with a medical bandage after applying.

• You can use gel directly from the plant or purchase it from natural food stores.

Soak the blister in apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial properties and can help the blister heal faster. Mix half a cup of vinegar with three teaspoons of castor oil. Apply this mixture to the blister several times a day and cover it with a bandage.

Try using tea tree oil. Tea tree oil has antibacterial properties and also acts as an astringent. Soak a cotton ball or gauze with tea tree oil and gently apply it to the blister. Cover the blister with gauze or a bandage.

Use a green tea bag. Green tea has antibacterial properties and contains tannic acid, which helps harden the skin. As the skin around the blister begins to heal and harden, a callus may form, making the area less susceptible to blisters.

• Soak a green tea bag in water for a few minutes. Squeeze gently to remove excess water. Apply the tea bag to the blister for a few minutes.

Evaluate the need to drain the blister. If it is a large, painful, or irritated blister, you might want to drain it. Although the best option is to leave it undisturbed, draining it can relieve pressure, which may reduce pain and irritation.

• Do not drain the blister if you have diabetes, HIV, cancer, or any condition that increases your risk of infection.

Wash your hands. Use plenty of soap and warm water to wash your hands so that the blister doesn’t become contaminated with dirt or bacteria when you drain it.

Disinfect the needle or pin with alcohol. You'll need a sharp object to puncture the blister. Make sure to clean it by wiping it with a gauze pad soaked in disinfectant alcohol.

Puncture the blister near the edge. Choose a spot near the edge of the blister and gently insert the needle or pin into the wound. Remove the needle when fluid begins to drain out.

• You may need to puncture the blister in multiple spots, especially for large blisters, to relieve the pressure inside.

Wash and bandage the wound. Use a clean gauze pad to wipe away any remaining fluid. Once the drainage stops, gently wash the blister with water and soap. Cover it with gauze and a bandage.

• You may need to apply antibiotic ointment for the first one or two days. Discontinue use if the wound starts to itch or develops a rash.
• If there is still a piece of skin attached to the blister, don’t cut it off; instead, leave it in place over the blister.
• Wash and re-bandage daily. Change the bandage if it gets wet.
• Remove the bandage at night to allow the blister to breathe. Reapply the bandage in the morning if the wound is still healing to prevent dirt from getting in.

Don’t puncture the blister if you have a serious condition. People with certain conditions, such as diabetes, are at a high risk of infection from blisters. If you have diabetes, HIV, cancer, or heart disease, do not puncture the blister. Instead, consult a doctor for proper treatment.

Monitor for signs of infection. Blisters are susceptible to infection. If you notice any signs, schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately. Some infection signs include:

• Increased pain or swelling in the affected area.
• The wound becomes more red.
• The skin around the blister feels warm.
• Red streaks spreading from the blister to the surrounding area.
• Yellow or green pus draining from the wound.
• Fever.

Choose socks carefully. Many people get blisters from socks rubbing against their feet, which is especially common among runners. Avoid cotton socks, as they absorb moisture and can cause blisters. Instead, opt for nylon or moisture-wicking socks, which don’t absorb moisture, are more breathable, and will help protect your feet.

Buy shoes that fit properly. Many blisters arise from wearing shoes that don’t fit well, especially shoes that are too small. Your shoe size can change by half a size throughout the day. To ensure a proper fit, try on shoes when your feet are most swollen to make sure they are roomy, comfortable, and supportive.

Use moleskin to prevent blisters. Moleskin can serve as padding, protecting blisters and helping prevent them from forming. Cut a small piece of moleskin and attach it to your shoes or feet in areas that are prone to blisters.

Sprinkle baby powder on your socks. Reduce foot friction by applying baby powder. It helps absorb moisture, a factor that can lead to blisters.

• Sprinkle a little baby powder inside your socks before wearing them.

Avoid contact with blister-causing plants. Some plants, like poison ivy and poison oak, can cause a blistering rash. If you need to work with these plants, take precautions by wearing gloves, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and shoes.

• Be alert for signs of infection. If you notice that the blister becomes more swollen or painful, or if you develop a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, see a doctor immediately.
• If blisters keep recurring, you should check for a condition like pemphigus or a genetic disorder that causes blistering.