Best blister treatment and prevention products
There are some things in life that are universally disliked.
There are no cheerleaders for queue-cutters, few fan clubs for food stains on white clothing, and when it comes to painful ailments like blisters? Well, we can’t imagine anyone giving them the thumbs up.
They usually crop up because of heat, pressure or moisture, the top layer of skin bubbling up and filling with air or liquid while new skin forms underneath. The liquid is there to protect the fresh new skin and keep it free from infection, so you should never pop a blister unless it’s particularly large, painful or likely to be further aggravated.
How to treat a blister
They usually heal on their own, but you can use things like an ice pack or soft fabric plasters to bring you relief and stop the blister rubbing against anything else. If you absolutely must drain it, wash your hands and the affected area first before using a sterilised needle to make a small puncture and gently drain the fluid. Cover the flap with Vaseline and wrap it securely with a gauze bandage, steering clear of footwear or the equipment that caused it until your skin has healed fully.
How to stop blisters forming
Prevention is always better than cure, but sometimes, no matter how much you plan or pre-wrap trouble areas like the ball and heel of your feet, blisters still rear their ugly heads.
Thankfully there are a few remedies you can try to soothe your skin. Plasters, gels and specialised socks for hiking and running should all cut your chances of growing new blisters.
We’ve rounded up the most helpful below.
Compeed Blister Plasters Mixed 5s
If you feel a blister coming on, Compeed should be your first port of call. The market-leading brand offers plasters for all stages of blisters, but the mixed pack is the perfect one to have stocked in your first aid kit. They’ll act like a second skin, so put one on the minute you feel that hot, uncomfortable friction. They’ll stay on through showers and baths, acting like a second skin to protect the vulnerable epidermis underneath from infection. They will also work on formed blisters to soothe pain and help the skin heal faster.
Boots is currently offering 20 per cent off many Compeed products. Shop the range here.
Scholl Party Feet Heel Shields
High heels can be torture but there are ways to ease the burning pain. These clear, slim gel pads are made to be worn on the balls of your feet, giving your skin an extra cushioning layer. As they’re totally transparent you can wear these with all kinds of heels, from strappy sandals to towering stilettos.
Koolpak Original Instant Ice Packs - Pack of 5
For fast relief from blister pain, ice can really help. There’s no need to stuff your freezer full of ice packs though, not with these instant versions around. Simply squeeze the pods inside and shake for instant iciness in seconds. Originally designed for bites, bruises and other injuries, we think these will take the edge off intense pain - especially as they remain cold for up for to 40min after the first use.
Falke GO5 Invisible No Show Socks
Additional silicone fibres on the inside of these Falke socks will prevent them from slipping, while extra heel cushioning aims to stop friction and the creation of blisters. The perfect protection against blisters whilst running this summer.
Hilly Compression Monoskin Cushion Running Socklets, Single Pair, Pink/Blue
Made with sweat-wicking Coolmax yarn, these anatomical cushioning socklets are perfect for promoting foot health while exercising. The breathable socks allow fresh air to circulate around your feet while the mesh-flex panels give your trotters the support they need.
Also available in a black and white combo.
Runderwear Anti-Blister Low-Rise Socks
Specifically designed to vanquish the scourge of blisters before they appear, Runderwear’s two moisture-wicking breathable layers rub against each other instead of your foot. As well as acting like a second skin, they’re breathable too, keeping your feet cool and comfortable even when you’re running or hiking, or playing tennis and golf.
Salvon Cream 100g
A time -honoured sore skin saviour, dab antiseptic Savlon cream onto clean skin for an extra shield against bacteria and other nasties that can lead to infections. It also works on cuts, grazes, insect bites, stings, minor burns and shaving cuts. It even works as an anti-septic hand cream. A handbag hero if ever we saw one.
Body Glide Unisex's Foot Glide Anti Blister Balm Stick, Purple, 22g
If you’re looking to protect your feet instead of fixing blisters when they appear, Body Glide’s anti-blister balm is your new best friend. The balm feels smooth and dry on so there’s no need to wait for anything to dry - just apply before socks or footwear and you’re good to go. It’s moisturising (but will keep your feet sweat-free) and packed with ingredients like Comfrey Leaf extract and Apricot Kernal oil which have anti-inflammatory and hydrating benefits.
