Blisters are small pockets of fluid trapped between the upper layers of the skin. The fluid can be plasma, serum, blood, or pus. The type of fluid depends upon the cause of the blister. Blisters are the body’s response to an extreme event. They are a few ways for the body to protect the inner layers of the skin and stop the damage from spreading any further.
Blisters, by themselves, are harmless. They can, however, be painful. Some of them even cause a burning sensation. However, it is better to be aware of the cause and how to avoid them in the future.
The most common cause of a blister is friction. Friction is responsible for blisters on your feet after a long walk or run. Blisters also make runners 50% more susceptible(1) to other injuries. Exposure to high heat or cold, and chemicals can also produce blisters. Certain diseases also cause blisters. A blister filled with blood is created by bruising or pinching.
Table of Contents
Did You Know!
| Certain autoimmune diseases, exposure to poisonous plants, and allergic reactions can cause blisters. |
How to Treat Blisters Naturally?
- Essential Oils
- Natural Remedies
- Home Remedies
- FAQs
CURE 1: Essential Oils for Blisters
Essential oils are compounds extracted from plants using steam or water distillation or by cold pressing. These oils contain the essence of the plant. They have the scent, flavor, and healing properties of the plant.
1. Lavender
Lavender is one of the most popular essential oils with benefits ranging from treating anxiety to reducing pain. It is one of the mildest yet effective essential oils. It soothes the affected area and relieves pain.
Why Does This Work?
Lavender oil is a natural analgesic as well as a mild anesthetic. These properties make it efficient in reducing pain. It is also anti-inflammatory and therefore, can reduce the swelling. Its antibacterial properties help in preventing infections that occur when the blister ruptures. It can also speed up(2) the healing process. All of these properties make it an excellent oil for fighting blisters.
How to Use?
Even though this is one of the mildest essential oils, it is safer to dilute it with a carrier oil. You can add about 3 to 4 drops of lavender oil to a teaspoon of any carrier oil. You can apply this mixture to the affected area. You can use olive or coconut oil or any other carrier oil of your choice. Inhaling the oil also helps in reducing pain. The oil can be inhaled or can be used in a diffuser.
2. Tea Tree or Melaleuca
Don’t get fooled by the name. Tea tree oil has nothing to do with the tea plant or any tree. Melaleuca plants are the source for tea tree oil. It is a very potent oil that has a multitude of benefits for various skin conditions, blisters included. So, tea tree oil for blisters help to get fast relief.
Why Does This Work?
Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory and astringent(3) properties. It can help dry out the blister and reduce the swelling. It is also antimicrobial and antifungal. You can continue applying it once the blister pops to decrease the chances of infection. Some blisters can scar the skin. The continued application of tea tree oil prevents this from happening.
How to Use?
Tea tree oil is very potent. It is better to dilute it before use. You can mix 3 to 4 drops of the essential oil with a teaspoon of carrier oil and apply it the blister. If you have sensitive skin or if this is your first time using tea tree oil, start with 1 or 2 drops and slowly work your way to 3 or 4 drops. You can even apply the carrier oil to the area first followed by the essential oil.
3. Frankincense
The resin of Boswellia carterii tree is the source for Frankincense oil. Also called olibanum, it has been in use since ancient times for various medicinal purposes. It is most advantageous for the blisters caused by friction.
Why Does This Work?
Frankincense’s wound healing abilities are unmatched to anything else. It puts the body’s immune system on overdrive and forces it to work faster on the blister. The anti-inflammatory property of the oils also aids the healing process. The antibacterial properties of Frankincense mean that applying it on a blister that has become infected or has popped would make it heal faster(4) and stop the infection. Inhaling the scent relaxes you and reduces the pain you feel.
How to Use?
It is essential to dilute Frankincense oil before applying it on the blister. You can do so by mixing 3 to 4 drops with a teaspoon of carrier oil. You can also inhale it using a diffuser or directly from the bottle.
4. Eucalyptus
You might have heard about Eucalyptus oil and its usefulness in treating sinusitis. Well, it works equally well on blisters. The oil originates from the leaves of the Eucalyptus tree.
Why Does This Work?
Eucalyptus oil (5) works in many different ways to treat the blister and other issues associated with it. It possesses analgesic properties that help in reducing the pain. The anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties work synchronously in reducing the blister and disinfecting it.
Eucalyptus oil prevents any further damage and keeps the affected area from getting infected. Inhaling the oil relaxes the mind and reduces the main. It also makes the body’s immune system work faster to heal the blisters.
How to Use?
You can apply the diluted version of the oil on the blisters to heal them. The warm weather causes your feet to swell, aiding to blister creation. You can apply eucalyptus oil as a preventative measure. You can also inhale it to get some of its benefits.
5. Peppermint
Don’t you start feeling tingly just hearing the name of peppermint? Peppermint is high in menthol. It cools the blister naturally and works in many other ways to treat it.
Why Does This Work?
The tingling and cooling sensation created by the high menthol content in peppermint counteracts the burning sensation caused by the blister. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties reduce pain while also reducing the swelling. When it comes to blisters, peppermint works in ways that are similar to that of tea tree oil.
How to Use?
Peppermint is a powerful essential oil. Practice caution while applying it on an open wound such as a popped blister. The diluted version is harmless for use on wounds. However, limit the application to three or four times a day. It is also best that you start with just one or two drops, and slowly increase to three or four. In addition to the topical application, inhaling the oil also speeds up the healing process.
Ancient Chinese and Egyptians were using essential oils thousands of years ago.
CURE 2: Natural Remedies for Blisters
Certain natural ingredients can help in treating blisters and their symptoms. These are safe methods that use natural substances. They are also free from any side effects.
1. Aloe Vera.
The gel within the fleshy leaves of this plant is beneficial for treating a range of skin conditions, blisters included. The healing and cooling properties(6) of the aloe vera combined with the ease of growing it has made it a favorite household plant.
Why Does This Work?
Aloe vera starts by acting on the skin surrounding the blister and strengthening it. It is an astringent. It draws the skin together and reduces the swelling. Aloe vera is also antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral. All these properties of aloe make it indispensable for fighting infections. It protects the skin around the blisters from any infections and continues to do so even after the blister has popped. The burning sensation of the blister also gets reduced due to the cooling characteristic of aloe.
How to Use?
This powerful disinfectant can be applied directly on the skin. Cut the leaves, spoon out the gel and apply it on the blister. You can even mix in a few essential oils mentioned above to create a more potent blister treatment.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is made by adding yeast to apple juice and fermenting it. ACV has a cornucopia of health benefits ranging from reducing cholesterol to weight loss. Using apple cider vinegar for blister can prevent future infections.
Why Does This Work?
Apple cider vinegar is anti-inflammatory and therefore helps in reducing the swelling. It is also antimicrobial and antibacterial(7). It can restrict the spread of the infection. Applying it on the blisters once they have popped ensures that the vulnerable inner skin is protected. When the blister dries on its own without popping, a layer of dead skin is left behind. ACV application can remove this dead skin.
How to Use?
ACV is strong, and the undiluted version should never be applied on the blisters. You can mix it with water in a 1:10 ratio. Dip a cotton ball in this mixture and lightly dab on the affected area. You may feel a stinging sensation. This is completely normal. You can use this once or twice a day.
Also Read: How To Relieve Sinus Infection With Apple Cider Vinegar
3. Green Tea
This ancient Chinese herb is a cure for almost any ailment. Drinking green tea has many health benefits. But did you know it could also cure blisters?
Why Does This Work?
Green tea (8) can soothe the affected area and reduce the burning sensation. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing the swelling. The antioxidants and vitamins present in the green tea also reduce the pain from the blisters.
How to Use?
Brew a cup of green tea but don’t throw away the tea bag just yet. Once the tea bag cools down, place it on the blister and keep it there for a few minutes. You can repeat this process four to five times a day. You can also soak the blister is a cold green tea solution for a few minutes.
4. Castor Oil
This thick pale yellow oil extracted from the castor seeds is one of the most popular natural remedies for treating blisters.
Why Does This Work?
The oil is anti-inflammatory(9). It reduces the swelling and fluid within the blister. Since blisters are sometimes caused by swelling, you can apply it regularly as a preventative measure. Itchiness is one of the common problems associated with blisters. This is also the reason for most blisters popping. Castor oil is an emollient that moisturizes the area surrounding the blisters are reduces the itchiness. This, in turn, reduces the chances of the blisters popping and allows them to heal on their own.
How to Use?
You can apply this remedy to the affected area at night and leave it overnight. This lets the castor oil work its magic all night long. Since the oil is thick, you only need a small amount. You can also mix it with ACV to speed up the healing process.
5. Turmeric
This yellow culinary spice from India has medicinal properties(10). It can cure everything from colds and sore throat to cancer. And of course, it works on blisters as well.
Why Does This Work?
Curcumin is one of the active ingredients in turmeric. Curcumin is anti-inflammatory and a powerful antioxidant. It can alleviate pain and reduce swelling. Has your blister burst? Are you worried about infection? Fret not! Turmeric is an antiseptic and will protect you from any kind of infection. In addition to the topical application, making turmeric a part of your diet can speed up the healing process.
How to Use?
You make a paste of turmeric with water and apply it on the blister. The quantity of turmeric will depend on the size and number of your blisters. You can leave this mixture on for around 15 minutes and then rinse it off. Repeat this twice or thrice a day for a few days. You can also mix half a teaspoon of turmeric with a glass of milk and drink the concoction. Curcumin gel is another great way to treat blisters.
6. Chamomile
Is there anything more relaxing than chamomile tea? It is well known that consuming chamomile tea relaxes your mind and body and reduces stress. But did you know that it can have a plethora of skin care benefits as well? It truly shines as a blister treatment.
Why Does This Work?
Chamomile is an antiseptic. It can prevent infection of the blisters. If the blister is filled with pus, chamomile can stop it from becoming worse. It can also help in healing the blister quickly due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Being rich in antioxidants, chamomile can fight skin damage and help in reducing the scars left behind by the blisters. It can also reduce the pain associated with the blisters.
How to Use?
Soak two bags of chamomile tea in a glass of hot water. Let it cool down naturally. Now, dip a cotton ball in the infusion and place it on the blister. Let it stay there for 15 minutes. You can keep repeating this throughout the day.
7. Honey
This sweet sticky substance is not only a healthy alternative to sugar, but it is also an excellent healer. Applying honey on any wound is a sure-shot way to speed up the healing process(11). Blisters are a type of wound and honey can be immensely useful in treating them.
Why Does This Work?
Honey is slightly acidic in nature. When applied on a blister, this causes the blood to release oxygen, which will then promote faster healing. The sugar present in the honey draws out the water or fluid from the blister and helps in deflating it. Not only does it draw out the fluid from the blister, but it also draws out the water from bacterial cells. This stops the growth of bacteria and prevents infections. Manuka honey is the most potent type of honey since it contains methylglyoxal, which easily passes through the skin and is antibacterial. Honey also prevents scarring from blisters.
How to Use?
You can directly apply honey to the blisters and leave it on. If the blister is under your feet, it may be better to apply the honey and leave it overnight.
8. Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay is aged volcanic ash. It is grey, or cream coloured fine powder that is also known as healing clay. There are many benefits() of using this clay on your skin and treating blisters is one of them.
Why Does This Work?
Bentonite clay is an excellent detoxing agent. It absorbs the toxins from the skin and releases minerals that help in healing the blisters. The clay also pulls excess hydrogen and replaces it with oxygen. The oxygen, in turn, heals the blisters faster. It also absorbs the fluids in the blister and reduces its size. Once the fluid is gone, it is much easier for the blister to heal. Bentonite clay also relieves the itchiness caused by the blisters and creates a soothing effect.
How to Use?
This is one of the easiest remedies to use. All you need to do is create a paste using bentonite clay and water. Apply this to the blister and leave it dry. You can wash it off once it dries. You can also wipe it off using a damp cloth.
9. Peppermint Leaves
Peppermint belongs to the mint family and is a cross between spearmint and watermint. Many traditional medicines use this herb for its cooling effect. It is for this very reason that peppermint can help in treating blisters.
Why Does This Work?
Peppermint leaves contain a high percentage of menthol. Menthol provides a cooling sensation. The cooling and tingling sensation counteract some of the common irritations that accompany a blister such as burning, itchiness etc. It is also an anti-inflammatory agent and therefore, reduces swelling. The antibacterial properties of peppermint leaves help in fighting infections.
How to Use?
You can crush the leaves in your hand. This releases the essence from the leaves. Apply the crushed up leaves to the blister. You can even store the crushed leaves in the refrigerator and apply it when it’s cold. The cooling effect of the menthol plus the cold temperature of the leaves can do wonders for you.
10. Basil Leaves
Basil is also referred to as holy basil due to its healing abilities. Basil is a multi-purpose herb. It is used in cooking as well as in medicines. Basil leaves are very effective in treating blisters(12) and the associated symptoms.
Why Does This Work?
Basil leaves are analgesic, and this makes them a potent painkiller. In addition to this, these leaves are also antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal. These properties ensure that basil leaf application can prevent infections. It also stops the blisters from causing further damage. The anti-inflammatory property of basil leaves helps in reducing the swelling caused by the blisters.
How to Use?
You can crush the basil leaves in your hand. You can even use a mortar and pestle to do this. Apply the crushed leaves to the affected area. You can wash it off after ten to fifteen minutes. Similar to peppermint leaves, using cold crushed leaves will enhance the cooling sensation and help in healing the blisters faster.
11. Fruit Peels
The peels of certain fruits, such as bananas(13) are very useful in treating blisters. It may sound weird to you, but many indigenous tribes use fruit peels to treat wounds, burns, blisters, etc.
Why Does This Work?
Fruit peels contain a plethora of compounds that reduce pain while also healing the wound faster. Fruit peels are anti-inflammatory and help in reducing pain. They also help the skin regenerate. Once the blister pops and the top skin layer is removed, application of fruit peels helps in the generation of new skin cells. In addition to this, many fruit peels are natural antibiotics. They prevent infections, especially when the inner skin layer is exposed.
How to Use?
You can take the peel of fruits such as bananas, or papaya and rub it on the blister. You can even put some honey on the peel and place them on the blister. Both honey and the peels work together to reduce the blisters.
12. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is more than just a breakfast item. Raw oatmeal has various benefits to the skin. Its soothing properties(14) make it ideal for treating blisters.
Why Does This Work?
An oatmeal bath has been in use for ages to reduce itchiness caused by various skin conditions. It works for blisters as well. It also reduces inflammation and soothes the area. Oatmeal is rich in antioxidants, and they can repair the damage to your skin. Oatmeal is also a great moisturiser. It prevents the skin near the blister from drying out and reduces itching.
How to Use?
Fill a tub with water and add uncooked oatmeal to it. Wait for a while so that the oatmeal absorbs some of the water and reaches a paste-like consistency. Stir the contents of the tub to make a uniform mixture. Now immerse the affected area in the tub. Do this for at least 30 minutes.
Many modern medicines for blisters have their roots in natural remedies.
CURE 3: Home Remedies for Blisters
There are many ingredients found in your home that are very effective in curing blisters. These may not all be natural, but they are easy to obtain and have no side effects.
1. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an essential nutrient that you would obtain via the foods you consume. However, it has been proven that applying Vitamin E directly to the skin can also do wonders, especially when it comes to healing wounds and clearing scars(15).
Why Does This Work?
The antioxidants present in vitamin E can reduce inflammation. Vitamin E is also an excellent moisturizer. It reduces the itchiness caused by the blisters and keeps the skin around the blisters moisturized. It also improves skin health and cell function. This helps the blister heal faster. If you continue applying vitamin E oil after the blister has subsided, you will notice that scar from the blister is fading.
How to Use?
You can buy vitamin E capsules from the pharmacy. These are small golden capsules. If you can pop this pill using a clean needle and apply the liquid inside directly to the blister.
2. Epsom Salt Soak
Epsom salt is a magnesium sulfate compound. An Epsom salt soak has been in use for centuries to relieve stress and heal wounds. This is exactly how Epsom salt works on blisters as well.
Why Does This Work?
When the Epsom salt dissolves in water, the magnesium gets absorbed by the skin. Magnesium boosts the skin’s ability to fight inflammation. It also reduces swelling and pain associated with blisters. It also pulls out the fluid from the blister and helps in drying it out faster.
How to Use?
Start by filling a tub with enough water, so that soak the affected area. Now, add half a cup of Epsom salt into the tub. It is better if you use warm water. Soak the affected area for half an hour. You can even add some of the essential oils mentioned in the previous section to aid the healing process.
3. Toothpaste
You may have used toothpaste for keeping your pearly whites clean and shiny. It can also be used for many skin conditions, such as pimples, bug bites and yes, blisters.
Why Does This Work?
The main ingredient in white toothpaste is sodium carbonate. It is responsible for drying up the blisters. The sooner it dries, the faster it heals. Toothpaste that contains menthol also provides a cooling effect. The toothpaste also contains ingredients that fight bacteria. This helps prevent infections in the blisters. It also reduces swelling and stops itching.
How to Use?
Dab a small amount of white toothpaste on the blister and let it dry. You can wash it off once it dries. Many commercial tubes of toothpaste contain a lot of chemicals that can cause more harm than good. So be careful when you are getting one to apply on blisters. The benefits of white toothpaste are not applicable to gel toothpaste.
4. Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly is a mixture of mineral oils and waxes. It’s a translucent jelly-like substance.
Why Does This Work?
Petroleum jelly forms a barrier on the blister. It prevents dirt and germs from entering the blister and causing infections. The waxes in the jelly prevent water from entering coming in contact with the blisters. This property helps protect the blisters on those areas that may be regularly subjected to water. It also moisturizes the skin and prevents itching. Petroleum jelly works excellently to prevent friction. It can stop the formation of blisters.
How to Use?
Dab a small amount of petroleum jelly on the blister and let it stay. Petroleum jelly protects your blisters. But it doesn’t have any healing powers. The best time to use this remedy is when the blister has burst, and you need to let the skin underneath heal on its own.
5. Pad the Blister
This method is used to protect the blisters in those areas which have a higher chance of blister burst.
Why Does This Work?
Blisters are pretty harmless if they dry on their own and don’t burst. Blisters that are formed in tricky areas such as under the feet have a greater chance of bursting if not protected. Padding the blister prevents them from bursting. This also prevents dirt from entering the blisters and infecting it. Padding lets the blister heal on its while also preventing anything else from disrupting the healing.
How to Use?
Cut the padding into a doughnut shape. The hole in the middle should be big enough to provide clearance for the blister. Place the padding on the blister carefully and cover it using a bandage. Make sure to open the bandage every day and check on the blister. If it looks like it is getting infected or if it is taking too long to heal, it may be better to remove the padding and consult a doctor.
6. Diaper Rash Cream
You may have applied this your baby’s bottom to prevent and heal rashes. But diaper rash cream is equally useful for adults too. This thick white cream is an effective blister treatment.
Why Does This Work?
The main ingredient in diaper rash cream is zinc oxide. Apart from providing sun protection, zinc oxide is also an astringent. It will draw the skin together and heal the blister by reducing the fluid inside. It helps in regenerating the skin after an injury. It also has mild antiseptic properties. Diaper rash creams are moisturizing and are designed to prevent itchiness. All of these put together make diaper rash creams very useful for treating blisters.
How to Use?
Clean the area using water and soap to remove any dirt that may be present. Make sure the area is properly dry and apply the diaper rash cream. You can leave it on for as long as you want.
7. Baking Soda
The thing that makes your cakes and pastries rise is also excellent at treating blisters. This common household product can zap up that blister right away
Why Does This Work?
Baking soda has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It reduces the swelling caused by blisters. It also pulls the fluid out of them and dries them out faster. This also leads to faster healing. The antiseptic properties of baking soda reduce the chances of infection. You can apply it on an infected blister filled with pus and watch it work its magic. It can also soothe the pain caused by the blisters.
How to Use?
Make a thick paste by combining baking soda and water. Clean the area around the blister and make sure that it is dry. Now, apply the paste to the affected area. Wait till it dries off completely and then wash it off. Do this once or twice a day to see your blister shrink and disappear.
Also Read: 7 Simple Ways to Naturally Whiten Your Teeth at Home
How to Prevent Blisters
Almost everyone has had a blister at some point in time. The ones created by diseases and exposure to extreme temperatures are unpreventable. There are many approaches to avoid getting blisters in other circumstances.
- Getting the right shoes is of supreme importance. The wrong shoes create a friction that leads to blisters.
- You should always wear moisture wicking socks, especially if you are prone to blisters. The sweat tends to soften your skin, thereby making it more susceptible to blisters.
- Try changing the socks midway if you are going for a long run or practicing for a marathon.
- Try to wear loose-fitting and moisture-wicking clothes when you engage in any physical activity that generates sweat. Loose-fitting clothes let your skin breathe. The moisture-wicking property keeps the skin dry.
- Certain areas in your body are prone to blisters. Try to keep these areas lubricated. You can use petroleum jelly. It reduces friction in the area.
- You could also try to keep the area dry by applying talcum powder. You can also reduce the sweating with antiperspirant.
- Applying an adhesive moleskin bandage is another effective method for preventing blisters.
- Always wear the necessary protective gear while working with chemicals. It reduces your skin’s exposure.
Precautions to Be Taken for Blisters
Blisters come and go on their own. You can speed up the healing using the remedies mentioned above. But a blister that is filled with plasma or serum is not dangerous. However, it does have the potential to become something worse if not treated properly. Here are a few precautions you should take.
- If the blister has not popped, then try to keep it that way. Unless the blister is too large and is causing discomfort, it is better that it dries on its own.
- When you are applying a natural remedy or essential oil on the blister, be careful that you do not tug the skin too hard. Gently dab the surface of the blister.
- If the blister is large and situated in a tricky area, then you may need to pop it. Make sure that use a sterilized needle for this. Gently poke a hole near the edge of the blister and drain out the fluid.
- When a blister has popped, or it has been burst, try not to remove the skin covering it. Doing so exposes the inner layers of the skin to bacteria and dirt. If the inner layer hasn’t healed, then this can lead to infections.
- If the blister is filled with pus and is emitting a foul smell, then it is probably infected. You should consult a doctor once this happens to prevent the infection from spreading any further.
Treat Your Blisters Naturally
Blisters are caused by a wide range of reasons. While there are ways to prevent it, it only works in some cases. Many a time, it is completely out of your control. But getting the right treatment is definitely within your control. A blister is a common ailment that can be treated using the ingredients that are found in your kitchen. If home remedies aren’t enough, the more potent essential oils come to your rescue.
By this stage, all blisters would have bid goodbye. Natural is always the best way to go for any ailment, big, or small. There are no side effects, it is very effective, and it is cheap. In the rare occasion that these remedies don’t yield results, it is recommended that you consult a doctor.
FAQs
1. Are Natural Remedies Safe to Use? What Are the Side Effects?
Natural remedies are absolutely safe to use. They have no side effects as long as you are allergic to the ingredient.
2. What Kind of Essential Oils Should I Buy?
When buying essential oils, ensure that it is 100% natural oil and comes in a glass bottle. Also, check if the product is organic. Since the essential oils are being used for medicinal purposes, make sure that you are buying the therapeutic grade product.
3. When Should I See a Doctor?
In case the blister shows no signs of healing despite using the natural remedies, visit a doctor immediately. You should go to the doctor immediately if the blister appears infected.