So you spent an entire Thursday night dancing. What’s the worst that could happen? You show up late for work? Have a terrible hangover? Try again: We’re talking about blisters. They’re unsightly and painful. But fear not—these fluid-filled bubbles are treatable (and preventable!). We answer your burning questions on how to treat a blister, below.
1. What exactly is a blister? What causes them?
Board-certified dermatologist, Maral K. Skelsey, explains that blisters form when fluid, either clear or yellow-tinged, accumulates in a space between the layers of the skin. The liquid acts as a cushion to the wound, so your body is simply taking protective measures. There are chiefly two types:
- Friction Blisters: Appear from continuous rubbing of the skin.
- Blood Blisters: In essence, the same as a friction blister, a blood blister forms when there is higher friction which causes small blood vessels to break and release blood into the blister. The treatment is about the same as a friction blister, although they may require more care and longer healing time.
2. How do I treat a blister at home? How long does it take to heal?
Most blisters heal naturally, simply because new skin grows underneath the blister and your body reabsorbs the fluid until the skin on top dries and peels off.
To be exact, Dr. Skelsey says you can expect to wait seven to 10 days. In the meantime, she explains how to treat a blister at home to speed recovery:
- Disinfect: Keep it clean with soap and water.
- Protect: Cover with an ointment such as petroleum jelly and with a loose bandage and/or a donut-shaped moleskin.
- Heal: Avoid pressure on the area; reduce friction by staying away from the activity that caused the blister in the first place.
3. Should I pop the blister? What do I do if the blister bursts?
Because blisters heal on their own, you should treat it and leave it. “Most blisters do not need to be drained unless they are very tense and painful,” says Skelsey. So, no to self-surgery! Read more
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