Most blisters are caused by friction or minor burns and don’t really need a doctor’s care. New skin will form underneath the affected area and the fluid is simply absorbed. Don’t puncture a blister unless it’s large, painful, or likely to be further irritated. The fluid-filled blister keeps the underlying skin clean, which helps prevent further infection and promotes healing.
However, if you do need to pop a blister:
- Use a sterilized needle (for it to be sterilized, put the point or edge in a flame until it’s red hot, or rinse it in alcohol).
- Wash your hands and the area thoroughly, then make a small hole; the fluid will drain on its own.
- If the fluid is either white or yellow, the blister may be infected and may require you to visit a doctor.
- Don’t remove the skin over a broken blister. The new skin underneath needs to have its protective cover.
- Apply an antibiotic ointment or cream on the affected area.
- Look for signs of infection to develop, including pus drainage, red or warm skin surrounding the blister, or red streaks leading away from the blister.
Remedies:
