There are different kinds of blister: fever blisters, friction blisters, and blood blisters. The friction blister is the commonest of all 3 categories of blisters.
Fever blisters form around the chin, mouth, cheeks and nostrils.
Should You Pop A Blister?
A blister actually acts like a protective shield or covering that prevents infection. The skin over the fluid is a very effective barrier to infection.
It is not recommended that you pop a blister, because there is a very strong likelihood, that it could get infected. Let it dry up naturally. It may take a while, but that’s the most ideal way to tackle it.
The unbroken skin covering the blister acts like a natural barrier to microbes, and cuts down the chances of infection. People having diabetes, or any other metabolic disorder ought not to pop a blister. Visit your doctor and seek his advice.
What Happens If You Pop A Blister?
When you pop it, the wound gets exposed, the fluids leak out and the tissues beneath are vulnerable to infection. In case, a blister pops, you must cover it up as soon as possible to avert infection.
Yes, popping a blister is a bad idea. Experts say, the blister will heal a lot more quickly and better, if you leave it intact. The fluid inside generates a good healing environment. Also, the fluid acts like a cushion to protect the raw flesh under the blister. Once the blister is popped, the two surfaces will rub.
When you pop a blister, there is a huge risk that you may introduce an infection. Furthermore, a popped blister may refill, which is bad too.
Home Remedies For Blister
- Cool compress: soak a cotton swab in a solution of salt and ice cold water. It will afford comfort.
- 10 % tannic acid: this application makes the skin strong and healthy.
- Aloe vera gel or juice, vitamin E oil or zinc: application over the blister reduces pain and swelling.
- Garlic oil: is the best anti microbial and anti septic. Apply a drop over the blister and leave on.
- Witch hazel: is another effective home remedy; it relieves pain and hastens the drying process as well.
- Epsom salts: mix 1 spoon of Epsom salts in a bowl of water. Dab on to the blister, several times, through the day.
- Blend together 1 spoon of olive oil or aloe vera gel with 2 drops of grapefruit juice extract and dab over the blisters.
- Lemon balm and mint extract are very helpful too.
- Ginger and sage tea: boil ½ an inch of ginger with a few sage leaves. Consume 1 glass of this decoction daily.
- Tea bags: apply a tea bag on to the blister, twice daily.