Blisters

How to avoid blisters

What can you do to avoid blisters? In many cases, the best way is to keep your feet dry and to air them a little when you change your socks. Try to avoid anything that rubs directly against the skin of your feet. Changing your socks often is important, especially if you are out hiking.

Break your shoes in properly

A common cause of blisters when training and hiking is using new shoes or shoes that have not been broken in properly. Always try to make time to break in your shoes or boots before you wear them for long periods. You could also try wearing two layers of socks: a thin nylon sock closest to your foot and another sock on top. Wear woolen socks and avoid cotton socks, which absorb more moisture. Make sure there are no folds in your socks, as this can easily cause friction and blisters.

Prevention with plasters or tape

You can prevent blisters by using a plaster on exposed areas of skin, such as your heels, ankles or toes. You can also use tape or a fixative that offers good adhesion.

Quick guide

• Keep your feet healthy with a foot file, foot bath and moisturizing cream.
• Break in new shoes and boots properly.
• Use two layers of socks: a thin layer closest to your feet and a thicker layer on top.
• When running or cycling: use tights or cycling shorts under your pants to reduce friction between your thighs.

If you have abrasions

Wash and ease any further friction

If you have a blister, try to avoid bursting it. The blister protects the skin that is forming underneath it. Instead, you should wash it with mild soap and water. If you take a shower, dry the area carefully. Be careful not to tear the blister. Protect it with a dressing.

Avoid infection

Blisters can become infected if the blister breaks and there is a wound. You will notice this if the wound becomes more painful after a day or so, and the skin around it swells and goes red. Try to clean the abrasion very carefully a couple of times a day. Wash with water and mild soap.

Seek medical advice if you suspect a wound is infected.

Use Sorbact® Secure to facilitate the healing process

• Wash the abrasion carefully with mild soap and water
• Wipe dry.
• Place Sorbact® Secure over the wound.
• Ensure the entire abrasion is covered by the Sorbact® surface.

Webpage examined by Margareta Grauers, dermatology nurse, 29-06-2017