Is It Safe to Pop Blisters?

Normally, it is best to keep blisters intact because the unbroken skin protects it from bacteria and infection. Also, blisters do not necessarily need treatment as they will usually heal on their own. Sometimes, though, they can become too bothersome or painful. Under these circumstances, it can be safe to pop blisters, provided that the procedure is done correctly and the affected person maintains good care of the popped blisters until they heal. Those who have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, should contact their doctor before they pop blisters.

There are a variety of ways to develop blisters, such as through infections, injuries and even medications. The most common blisters occur due to friction or pressure. Sometimes, it is possible for a person to prevent himself from acquiring blisters and this involves wearing bandages, padding or other coverings that protect against constant rubbing and pressure. When blisters form, the usual method of treatment is to keep it clean, dry and bandaged until it goes away on its own. Some blisters can become really painful, and as common blisters usually occur on the hands or feet, they can interfere with a person’s ability to walk or use his hands for daily activities; this is when he might consider popping them.

To pop blisters safely, the goal is to puncture the fluid-filled bump in an area the will drain the fluid, but will also leave the skin intact as a whole so that it can continue to provide some protection from infection. Cleanliness and sterilization are important factors in popping blisters, which is why rubbing alcohol is one important element needed to pop blisters at home. In general, other basic tools needed include a sharp needle, antibiotic cream and bandages. The first steps in the procedure are to wash and apply rubbing alcohol onto both the blister and needle. Popping the blister around the edges should help keep the overlying skin intact while allowing the fluid to leak out.

Antibiotic cream will help to protect against an infection and a bandage will help the blister remain clean and dry while healing. The affected person needs to make sure he continuously takes care of the popped blister. This includes removing dead skin with scissors or tweezers and re-applying antibiotic cream and changing bandages when necessary. If a popped blister happens to develop an infection, it might produce signs such as pain, pus and redness. In the event that these or other signs of infection occur, the affected person should speak with his doctor to find the right course of action, as an infected blister can lead to an abscess.