Blisters are fleshy, fluid-filled, bubble-like skin aberrations that appear on the skin due to excessive friction or an infection. They may be painful, itchy and, if present in a weight-bearing region, may even impede movement. Most people tend to develop blisters on their skin at some point in time in their life. Therefore, knowing how to heal them may be a life skill that everyone should attain. Mostly, blisters tend to heal on their own through the body’s natural epidermal and immune activation. However, there are some home remedies that you may employ to fasten this process. Here are six ways you can treat blisters and help them heal.

Burst a Blister

You should not attempt to burst blisters at the sight of one; however, in some very extreme instances, it may become virtually necessary. To explode a blister, you must begin by cleaning your hands and the affected spot with water. Then the latter must be swabbed with iodine. You can use a sterilized needle to puncture the edge of the blister, which allows the liquid to drain out. The overlying skin should stay in place. Then, apply your doctor-prescribed ointment or antibiotic. If it’s a blood blister, do not pop it. Vesicles carrying contagious infections such as chicken pox should not be burst; instead, seek medical help from a professional.

Tea Tree Oil Ointments

Tea tree oil is a versatile herbal remedy that helps various skin conditions. It possesses potent antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, which makes it an incredible topical application for skin rashes and sores. When you have a blister, rub a small amount of the tea tree ointment on the sore area in typical fashion. The tea tree oil ointment will have the effect of expediting the drying up of the blister. The quicker the blister dries up, the less painful and sensitive the affected skin becomes. However, care must be taken to apply the ointment carefully, without transfer of any microbes from the blister to the ointment container.

Pure Aloe Vera Gel

Many skin experts maintain that aloe vera gel is an excellent substance with which to treat a blister. This plant extract has useful anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce swelling and redness in a short amount of time. Concerning blisters, it is most helpful in healing once they have dried and shriveled up. Aloe vera gel will moisturize the traumatized skin and push it into speedy recovery for regaining regular appearance. It’s better to use freshly-extracted aloe vera gel directly from the plant because its pure in its unadulterated form.

Salt Water Soak

If you have sensitive skin and are unsure about the nature and cause of your blisters, you could try a salt water soak. Salt water is merely a cleanser that will remove dirt and sweat from the affected area. This method can help keep the skin clean and prevent germs from spreading to other parts. A saltwater soak should ideally be performed once a day, before the application of any ointment or change of dressing. If you indulge in considerable physical activity throughout the day, you can repeat the procedure at night as well. Typically, salt water should not irritate the skin, but if it does, consult a professional for alternative means of cleaning the blistered skin.

Toothpaste

Many people use toothpaste to soothe and dry out inflamed skin. It can also be used to treat blisters; in fact, toothpaste will not just dry the blisters out, the cooling effect may even help reduce the pain. If you decide to use this at-home remedy for blisters, you must never use one that contains cinnamon. A neutral toothpaste is best, be it in gel form or otherwise. The application process is simple. Just clean the affected skin with soap and water and then add a dab of toothpaste on the blister. You can leave it on for about two hours. Then rinse it off gently and let it air dry.

Apple Cider Vinegar

A lot of patients report that using apple cider vinegar helps heal blisters very quickly. It has powerful antibacterial properties, and this is very helpful in preventing infections once the blister has burst. However, apple cider vinegar has strong astringent properties, and it does sting upon application. The best method to use it is applying it locally with a cotton swab on the affected and surrounding area. If the burning is very intense, it would be best to avoid apple cider vinegar because of the aggravated discomfort.

Whole Milk

A surefire way to treat fever blisters is whole milk. Raw, whole milk contains calcium as well as immunoglobulins that combat the virus-causing fever blisters. It can help encourage the healing process. Apart from this, this particular dairy contains fat called monocaprin, which is known for its antiviral properties. Just soak a cotton ball in cold whole milk and rub it over the affected area. Let it stay on the blister for around 10 minutes, and you should gradually feel the tingling sensation disappear. Repeat this process as many times as possible throughout the day to help the pain subside temporarily. You may also speed up the healing process by drinking a glass of warm whole milk.

Cold Compresses

Ice is known for alleviating pain and reducing the redness that comes from inflammation such as blisters. Cold compresses are also known to put an end to the condition as it prevents spreading. The best way to heal blisters is by wrapping some ice cubes in a cloth and placing it on the blister for around 10 minutes. Repeat this process four or five times. After each session, apply lemon balm ointment on the affected area. If you are able, practice this method immediately before the blister develops to have the best outcome.

Yogurt

Yogurt is another adequate at-home remedy for treating virus-causing fever blisters. It contains lysine that helps the body in getting rid of the virus and prevents the infection from becoming active. You can prepare an egg or yogurt facial mask for healing the blisters efficiently. Create a thick paste by mixing an egg in a cup of yogurt. Add a little bit honey to it as well. Just apply the adhesive on the blister and let it remain there for half an hour or so. After that, remove the paste with lukewarm water. You can repeat this process once a day for several days.

Tea Bags

After cleaning any debris from the blister, place a tea bag on the affected area. Tea contains tannic acid that has antiviral properties, which makes it useful for rapidly healing fever blisters. The kits of tea also contain vitamins and antioxidants that quicken the healing process. All you need to do is place a tea bag preferably black on the sore for a minute and allow the site to cool down. Do this four or five times a day, and you will see the remedy offer instant pain relief in a few minutes.