Blisters are an inflammatory phenomenon that form on the outer layers of the skin. They consist of liquid-filled bubbles that usually come out on the feet or hands, although they could sprout anywhere on the body, such as the mouth.
Causes of blisters
Blisters usually appear due to continuous rubbing or friction on the skin. However, they can arise from other causes such as burns, allergies, viral or bacterial infections, sunstroke, etc.
Why do blisters appear on the feet?
Most often, blisters appear on the feet due to friction between the skin and the shoe. It is more common in cases where the feet are misaligned and/or the wrong socks and shoes are used. In addition, the heat also promotes blisters, making the feet sweat more and slip, rubbing against the inside of the shoe. To prevent blisters, socks made of non-moisture-retaining fabrics, correctly sized and seamless, are recommended. As for the shoes, they should not be too tight or loose. If you’re wearing shoes that could cause blisters, put antiperspirant deodorant on high-chafing areas. Deodorant prevents moisture and therefore friction.
The body creates the blisters in order to protect an area of skin that receives damaging friction. Thus, it creates a safe environment for the new skin to grow. The body will gradually reabsorb the fluid from the blister as new skin forms. In any case, blisters can be annoying and even painful. In addition, their healing without any intervention can be slow and, in some cases, they can burst on their own and become infected. Therefore, it is very important that you know how to cure blisters correctly, keep reading to find out!
Is it good to pop blisters?
There are situations in which it becomes necessary to break the blisters. For example, if they are in awkward places where they can easily break on their own (such as the heel of the foot), they are too large or painful. To properly drain a blister, the fluid must be removed with as little damage as possible to the skin that covers it.
What do you need to cure blisters?
Needle Alcohol A disinfectant such as chlorhexidine or apple cider vinegar Gauze
Instructions to cure blisters
Blisters heal differently depending on whether they need to be popped, whether they have broken on their own, or not yet. Choose the best recommendations according to your case. Remember that, whatever the state of the blisters, it is essential to keep them clean, disinfected and ventilated (as far as possible).
How to pop a blister?
Wash your hands well with soap and warm water. Disinfect the blister area with chlorhexidine or rubbing alcohol. Sterilize a needle with alcohol. Carefully pierce the edge of the blister and let the liquid drain out. Do not remove the excess skin, instead, it should come into contact with the new skin underneath. Disinfect the area again with chlorhexidine (or alternatively, alcohol or apple cider vinegar). Apply a bandage or gauze. Repeat the process if the blister refills with fluid.
How to heal a burst blister?
It is very easy for dirt or bacteria to get into a blister that has burst. Therefore, keep the area as clean as possible to prevent infection. Wash the wound with soap and water and apply Vaseline. It is also very effective to soak a piece of cotton in apple cider vinegar and pass it lightly over the broken blister. The acetic acid in vinegar serves to heal, in addition to preventing infections due to its antibacterial properties. Another alternative is to cover the affected skin with honey. Cleanse and reapply two to three times a day (at least). Honey prevents infections and speeds up healing.
How to cure blisters that have not burst?
If it hasn’t popped, try letting the blister air out, it will heal faster. If necessary, cover it loosely with soft gauze. Immerse the area in salt water to disinfect it and remove sweat and dirt. Aloe vera has moisturizing and anti – inflammatory properties, which can help blisters heal very quickly. You can use the plant, extracting the gel from its interior and applying it directly to the blister two or three times a day. It will shrink faster. If you can’t find the plant, you can use an aloe vera cream that is as pure as possible. This substance is very beneficial for healing burn blisters. Another thing you can do is cover the blister with cold green tea to reduce inflammation.
Remember that blisters due to herpes, chickenpox, spider bites or certain chronic diseases may need specific treatment, consult a doctor in these cases! As well as if you notice signs of infection such as a change in color, pus, warmth or redness around the blister, fever, or increased swelling or pain. Also, if blisters appear in the mouth or eyes, since they are infrequent areas.
Tips to heal blisters
Never pop a blister by squeezing it with your fingers. Avoid placing bandages or gauze pads on a burst, undrained blister, as they may remain attached to the skin. It is recommended not to remove the upper skin of the blister as it protects the “new skin” while it finishes healing. Try not to use other creams or medications that are not specifically for blisters, as they can have the opposite effect and infect the wound. Avoid wearing the same shoes that caused the blister or doing the activity that caused the blister until it heals completely.