How do you treat an infected blister?


Quick Answer

Prevent an infected blister from worsening in severity and pain by regularly cleaning the area with warm water and antibacterial soap, coating with an antibacterial ointment, and shielding it from dirt and debris with an adhesive bandage. If an infection does not improve with home treatment, immediately visit your physician, states Nationwide Children's Hospital.

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Full Answer

  1. Clean the blister

    Prevent the spread or growth of an infection by regularly cleaning the area with lukewarm water and a gentle antibacterial soap. Once cleaned, fully rinse soap away, and completely dry with a clean towel. If the blister is sensitive to touch, use a blow dryer to dissolve moisture gently.

  2. Kill bacteria with hydrogen peroxide

    A freshly cut blister, or a reopened blister wound, requires sterilization. Kill bacteria and inhibit infection by pouring 1 teaspoon of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide directly onto the blister. Allow the blister to air dry.

  3. Cover the blister with an antibacterial ointment bandage

    Spread a thin layer of antibacterial ointment onto an adhesive bandage. Lightly rub the bandage over the blister to coat it with ointment before securing. Replace the bandage every 2 to 4 hours until the infection has healed.

  4. Clean the blister every few hours

    Clean the infected blister whenever the bandage is changed. Lightly soak a cotton ball in rubbing alcohol, and gently clean the surface of the blister before reapplying the ointment-coated bandage. Immediately visit the emergency room if red streaks begin leeching away from the blister. This is a sign the infection is spreading.

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