How to Put Moleskin Over a Blister

Blisters are painful 12. For the competitive or recreational runner, even a small blister can turn a record-breaking race into a slow, uncomfortable walk. Caused by friction, blisters can be the result of new shoes, improperly laced shoes, wet, sweaty socks or hot and humid weather. For those seeking relief from that painful bubble on their heel, moleskin is a welcome remedy. Instead of popping a blister, which can mean more discomfort, moleskin is applied to form a protective barrier around the blister, preventing further friction.

Is This an Emergency?

If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.

Remove shoes and socks and attempt to dry the area around the blister. Use foot powder minimally if a dry cloth is not available. Cut a square piece of moleskin large enough to extend a ½ inch beyond the outer edges of the blister.

How to Use Moleskin for Blisters

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Fold the moleskin in half, adhesive side down. Use the size of the blister as a reference and cut a semi-circle out of the center of the folded end of the moleskin. If done properly, the result will be a square piece of moleskin with a hole in the center.

Test that the size of the hole in the moleskin is correct. Gently lay the moleskin over the top of the blister. The circle should completely surround the blister without touching its edges. Remove the adhesive from the back of the moleskin. Attach the moleskin to the skin, adhesive side down.

Tips

If the bubble of the blister is large, consider using molefoam instead. Molefoam uses a similar outer fabric but also has a thicker foam underside to provide more height off the blister and less friction.

Warnings

Avoid tearing the skin that forms the top of the bubble off as the flesh underneath will be much more sensitive. If the blister must be popped or pops on its own, leave the skin on for the remainder of the run.

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