To treat blisters, the general guidance is as follows: For an unpopped blister:
- Try to leave it intact without popping.
- Keep it clean and either leave it uncovered or cover loosely with a bandage.
- Avoid putting pressure on the blister; if on the foot, use a donut-shaped padding around it.
- Protect it from friction and irritation.
For a popped blister:
- Clean the area gently with warm water and mild soap (avoid alcohol, hydrogen peroxide).
- Smooth down the remaining skin flap.
- Apply antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly.
- Cover loosely with a sterile bandage or gauze.
- Change the dressing daily and whenever it gets wet or dirty.
When to drain a blister:
- If it is large, painful, or in a difficult spot, you may drain it safely by sterilizing a needle with alcohol, making a small hole at the edge, and gently squeezing out the fluid.
- Do not remove the skin over the blister.
- After draining, clean again, apply antibiotic ointment, and cover loosely.
Additional care tips:
- Avoid resuming the activity or wearing footwear that caused the blister until healed.
- Watch for infection signs like pus, redness, warmth, red streaks, swelling, or increased pain.
- See a doctor if infection signs appear or if immune issues or diabetes are present.
Natural remedies like aloe vera, green tea, tea tree oil, and eucalyptus oil may help reduce pain and promote healing, but the primary care should focus on cleanliness and protection. Most blisters heal naturally within a week or two with proper care.
