First Aid & Emergencies

Blisters Treatment

Blisters from spider bites, chicken pox, shingles, cold sores, and chronic health conditions need special treatment.

1. For a Blister That Has Not Popped

• Try not to pop or drain.
• Leave uncovered or cover loosely with a bandage.
• Try not to put pressure on area. If blister is in a pressure area such as the bottom of the foot, put donut-shaped moleskin on it.

2. For a Blister That Has Popped

• Wash the area with warm water and gentle soap. Do not use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or iodine.
• Smooth down the skin flap that remains.
• Apply antibiotic ointment.
• Cover loosely with a sterile bandage or gauze.

3. When to Drain a Blister

To drain a blister that is large, painful, or in an awkward spot:

• Wash the area.
• Sterilize a needle with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.
• Make a small hole at the edge of the blister. Gently squeeze out the fluid.
• Wash the blister again and pat dry. Don’t remove the skin over the blister.
• Smooth down the skin flap.
• Apply antibiotic ointment.
• Cover loosely with a sterile bandage or gauze.

4. Follow Up

• Change bandage daily and whenever it gets dirty or wet.
• Avoid wearing shoes or doing the activity that caused the blister until it heals.
• Wear thick socks or work gloves for blisters on feet or hands.
• See a doctor for signs of infection, including pus, fever, red or warm skin around the blister, red streaks leading away from blister, swollen lymph glands, or increased pain or swelling, or if your last tetanus shot was more than 10 years ago.