Blister guide: Treatment, healing speed & FAQs

Blisters usually naturally heal within 7-14 days and shouldn’t require medical attention. If the blister is located in an area that is weight-bearing, it may take a little longer to heal.

Once a blister has initially formed the healing process will immediately begin as the fluid collects under the damaged skin. This fluid is created by the body to cushion the skin and avoid further damage to allow healing. 

Gradually, over the next few days, the fluid will naturally drain and the skin under the surface will heal. This process can take anywhere from 3-7 days depending on the severity of the blister and location.

Savlon Scar Prevention Gel helps soothe the pain of minor wounds such as blisters. Its hydro-active colloid gel creates optimal healing conditions to support the skin's healing process.

There aren’t any ‘quick fixes’ for blister treatments, it most requires patience as the skin heals itself. To ensure the blister is healing properly with minimal risk of infection, you may want to follow these steps:

• Keep the blister covered loosely with a bandage or blister plaster to create a protective barrier.
  
  
• Avoid popping or draining the blister as the fluid will naturally drain within 2-3 days. Although popping a blister may create temporary relief, it can cause further complications if infection occurs.

• Keep the skin and surrounding area clean and change the dressings regularly.
  
  
• Contact a doctor if signs of infection occur, such as redness, pus or swelling.

The fluid pocket is created to cushion and protect damaged tissue so if this cushion is damaged or popped, this will delay the healing process. 

Keeping the blister covered with a plaster will help resist the temptation of picking or popping. If the protective top layer of the blisters is damaged or comes away it’s best to keep the area clean and covered to prevent infection.

It is recommended to drain uncomfortable or painful blisters to relieve but this should only be done by a medical professional to prevent the chances of infection. Your GP may burst a large or painful blister if it looks infected and may even prescribe antibiotics.  

Wearing loose-fitting clothes against blisters or comfortable shoes will also help to relieve blister pain. You may want to do this for the full healing process of 7-14 days.

Blisters are most common on the feet from wearing shoes that are too tight but there are a number of ways to prevent all types of blisters, wherever they occur.

• Know your problem areas - If you are prone to blisters you may need to prepare for a blister before it even forms. For example, if you’re about to wear a new pair of shoes for the first time, apply blister plasters to reduce friction.
  
  
• Wear the right clothing - Chafing can also be a common cause of blisters so wearing loose and breathable clothing will reduce friction and the likelihood of blisters forming.
  
  
• Consider your options - The types of shoes and socks you wear will determine your chances of blisters forming. Avoid shoes that are tight-fitting or too narrow and double up on socks if you’re unsure.

• Lubricate your feet - If you regularly exercise in the same shoes lubricating your feet beforehand will help to reduce friction and blisters forming.
  
  
• Wear sun protection - Blisters can also form on sunburnt skin so it’s best to keep your skin covered in direct sunlight or wear sun cream to prevent skin damage. Large blisters on sunburnt skin can often be a sign of severe burn so you may want to consult a healthcare professional.