A blister is a small bubble of fluid that forms under the top layer of skin in response to friction, pressure, injury, or infection. The fluid inside the blister can be clear or bloody, and blisters can be painful or itchy depending on their cause. Blisters can occur anywhere on the body but are most common on the hands and feet. Some common causes of blisters include:
- Friction or pressure from ill-fitting shoes, sports equipment, or tools.
- Burns or scalds.
- Sunburn.
- Allergic reactions to irritants, insect bites or stings.
- Viral or fungal skin infections.
Most blisters heal on their own within a few days and do not require medical attention. However, to make them more comfortable, you can wash the area gently with mild soap, apply antibacterial cream or ointment, and cover the blister with a bandage or gauze. It is important to resist the temptation to pop or break a blister or peel it off, as the skin on the blister protects deeper layers of skin from infection. If a blister is particularly large or painful, a doctor may decide to puncture it with a sterile needle to let the fluid drain out.
