How to safely pop a blister without making it worse

Blisters are the fluid-filled, raised blister-like structures that often appear on our skin. They are usually under the first layer of skin and may be filled with pus,  or a clear fluid. While some of them are painful, all of them are uncomfortable, making it very tempting to pop a blister. However, before you think of ways to pop a blister, it is important to understand that this is not the right course of action.

If you really need to pop a blister, there are a few ways to prevent infections or further complications. Health Shots gets all your answers from dermatologist Dr. Priyanka Kuri.

What is a blister?

A blister is a small pocket of fluid in the skin. It is caused by friction, burns or infections. “Anyone can get blisters. Infants and young children are more susceptible due to sensitive skin and inability to communicate discomfort when it comes to friction, while older adults may be at greater risk due to reduced skin elasticity. Friction, heat, cold, chemicals and infections are common causes of blisters,” says Dr. Kuri. Explained.

Do you need to pop an abrasion blister?

Abrasion blisters are caused by repeated rubbing or pressure, but burns, extreme cold, chemical exposure, and some infections can also lead to blisters. “Generally, popping blisters is not good. Doing this can lead to infections and worsen the condition. Blisters usually appear when your skin is rubbed too much or exposed to heat, cold or chemicals. Popping blisters also increase the risk of infection and delay healing,” says Dr Kuri.

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Instead of popping the blister, the best course of action is to keep the blister clean and secure to prevent further irritation. “If the blister is causing discomfort or pain, you can cover it with a bandage or blister pad to reduce friction and allow it to heal on its own. If the blister pops on its own, clean it gently with soap and water, apply an antiseptic ointment and cover it with a bandage to prevent infection,” says Dr Kuri.

What is a blister and should you pop it?

blisters form when vessels break under your skin and are best left alone. “They are like a natural bandage, protecting the skin underneath. Blistering can increase the risk of infection and prolong healing,” says Dr. Kuri. If intact, the outer layer of skin acts as a natural barrier against infection.

Can you pop a fever blister?

Fever blisters, or cold sores, are caused by a virus. Popping them can spread the virus and make the situation worse. Let them heal on their own and try some over-the-counter creams to help, Dr. Kuri suggests. Bursting a fever blister increases the risk of spreading the virus and causing further irritation or infection. “Fever blisters are caused by the herpes simplex virus and are usually located on the lips or around the mouth. Popping a fever blister can release fluid containing the virus, which can lead to the virus spreading to other areas of the skin or to other people,” adds Dr Kuri.

How can you pop a blister safely?

Popping a blister should be avoided at all costs, but if it’s causing you a lot of pain and you absolutely must, here’s what you should do:

• Wash your hands thoroughly
• Clean the blister and the area around it
• Carefully poke a small hole near the edge of the blister with a sterilized needle.
• Gently press the fluid out, clean the area again,
• Apply some antiseptic and cover it with a bandage.

How to check if a blister is infected?

A blister infection can be identified based on the shape, color and size of the blister. Look for increased pain, redness, swelling, or warmth around the blister that may indicate inflammation. If the blister oozes yellow or green fluid, contains pus, increases in size, or you have a fever, it is more likely to be infected.

When should you not pop a blister?

It’s best to avoid blisters, especially if they’re small and don’t bother you much. Also, blisters on your hands or feet can easily become infected, so leave them alone. “If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, it’s even more important to avoid blisters without talking to a doctor first. If you get a large blister or a really deep blister, it’s best to let a professional take care of it,” says Dr. Kuri. When blisters are caused by burns or chemical exposure, they Act as a protective barrier and popping them can delay healing and increase the risk of infection.