Blisters are your body's natural cushion against burns and friction. Blisters are small, fluid-filled sacs that form between the skin to help protect the skin from infection and further trauma. In most cases, blisters are harmless and can be treated at home without the help of a doctor. If a blister is increasingly red, filled with white or green pus or gets worse over time, it may be infected and must be examined by a doctor.
Step 1
Decide if you will puncture the blister or leave it alone. Leave the blister alone if it is not bothering you. If you have blisters due to a burn or sunburn and the blister is painful, but not getting in the way of your daily activities, leave it alone. Puncture the blister if it is affecting your ability to walk or get through the day.
Step 2
Wash your hands and the blister with antibacterial soap. Dry both areas off with a clean towel.
Step 3
Apply rubbing alcohol to the blister to further sterilize it. If you don't have rubbing alcohol, you can also use iodine, suggests the Mayo Clinic.
Step 4
Sterilize a clean needle with rubbing alcohol. Do not use the needle if it is dull, rusty or has been used.
Step 5
Puncture the edge of the blister carefully with the needle. You may need to make several holes in the blister for it to drain completely. Gently pat the blister with a clean paper towel to soak up the fluid.
Step 6
Apply an antibiotic ointment to the afflicted area, suggests Clare Starrett, D.P.M., a professor at the Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine.
Step 7
Apply a sterile bandage to the afflicted area. Check every day for signs of infection and apply more antibiotic ointment.
Tips and Warnings
- If you are treating a blister on your foot, avoid wearing the shoes that caused the blister until the area heals completely.
- Consult a doctor if your blister appears swollen, has a red ring around it, or contains pus.
Things You'll Need
- Antibacterial soap
- Towel
- Rubbing alcohol
- Needle
- Paper towel
- Antibiotic ointment
- Sterile bandage
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