What Heals Blisters the Fastest?

Blisters typically heal on their own naturally, but proper care and prevention of infection are key to speeding up the healing process.

How to Help Blisters Heal Faster

While you can't magically make a blister disappear, you can optimize conditions for healing. Here's a breakdown:

• Leave it Intact (If Possible): The best thing is usually to leave the blister intact. The skin acts as a natural barrier, protecting the underlying tissue from infection.

• Cleanliness is Crucial (If Broken): If the blister pops on its own, or you need to drain it, proper hygiene is essential:

  1. Wash Your Hands: Before touching the blister, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water.
  2. Clean the Area: Gently clean the blister and surrounding skin with mild soap and warm water. Antibacterial soap is helpful, but not always necessary. Betadine can also be used but can cause skin irritation for some individuals. Avoid harsh cleansers like hydrogen peroxide, as they can damage the tissue and delay healing.
  3. Leave the Skin Flap: Do not remove the skin flap from the burst blister. It acts as a natural bandage. Gently pat the area dry.
  4. Apply Antibiotic Ointment (Optional): While not always necessary, a thin layer of antibiotic ointment (like Neosporin) can help prevent infection. If you are allergic to any of the ingredients, skip this step.
  5. Cover with a Bandage: Cover the blister with a clean, non-stick bandage. This protects the area from further irritation and contamination.

• Protect From Further Friction: Determine what caused the blister in the first place (e.g., poorly fitting shoes) and eliminate that source of friction. Use blister bandages or moleskin to cushion the area.

• Keep the Area Dry and Clean: Change the bandage daily, or more often if it becomes wet or dirty.

• Avoid Irritants: Stay away from harsh soaps, lotions, or other products that could irritate the skin.

What About Poking/Draining a Blister?

Draining a blister can provide relief from pressure, but it also increases the risk of infection. If you choose to drain a blister, do so carefully and only if it is very painful or interferes with your activities.

• Sterilize a Needle: Use a sterile needle (you can sterilize one by holding it over a flame until it glows red, then letting it cool).
• Puncture the Blister: Gently puncture the blister in a few places near the edge.
• Drain the Fluid: Allow the fluid to drain completely. Do not squeeze or force it.
• Leave the Skin Intact: Leave the skin flap in place.
• Follow Cleaning and Bandaging Steps Above.

When to See a Doctor

Consult a doctor if:

• The blister shows signs of infection (increased pain, redness, swelling, pus).
• You have a fever.
• You have underlying medical conditions (like diabetes or poor circulation) that could complicate healing.
• The blister is very large or painful.
• The blister keeps recurring in the same spot.