What to put on blisters

Blistered, aching feet? Consider trying the following which might help

Plasters

Whether you’re breaking in new footwear, or heading off on a hike, you should always take preventative steps to stop your feet from getting rubbed raw.

Stock up on blister plasters year-round, as summer sandals and winter boots are equal culprits when it comes to the friction which causes blisters to form.

You can buy plasters shaped to specific areas of your foot prone to blisters, such as the outer big toe joint and heel area. Apply them the same day you get a new pair of shoes, before running, or if you know you’ll be walking a lot. This will minimise the worst of the chafing.

Lubrication

A dab of petroleum jelly or lanolin-based ointment (such as a nappy rash cream) on the blister hotspot creates a barrier against socks and footwear and reduces friction.

Don’t use too much, though, or you’ll be left with greasy socks!

Foot soak

Grab a large plastic bowl (a clean unused washing-up bowl will do) and fill it around 1/3 full with warm water and a couple of handfuls of Epsom salts. You can add a couple of drops of tea tree oil for extra antibacterial effect.

Soak your feet for up to ten minutes, then pat dry with a clean towel.

Aloe vera gel

Aloe vera gel is found inside the chunky green leaves of the aloe vera plant.

Apply the gel directly to the blister, both before and after it has naturally burst. You can purchase it in tubes or use it straight from the plant.

Aloe vera gel also contains the compound glucomannan, which boosts the production of collagen and the formation of new skin cells under the raw patch left after the blister has burst.

Apple cider vinegar

This amber- coloured liquid is a natural antifungal and antimicrobial².

On either active or burst blisters, use a teaspoon on apple cider vinegar on a damp cloth and dab the affected areas on the feet. Use a non-fluffy cotton pad or soft muslin cloth to prevent fibres getting into the blister.

Hydrocolloid dressings

Hydrocolloid dressings are an advanced type of plaster. They are impregnated with a gel which creates a ‘second-skin’ effect upon application, creating a watertight barrier which stops bacteria and dirt getting into the blister.

These are best to apply on blisters which have already naturally burst.

Last updated: 12 May 2020