Quick Scoop

For a foot blister, the safest approach is usually to protect it, keep it clean, and let it heal. Most blisters from friction improve on their own in a few days if you stop the rubbing and cover the area gently.

What to do

  • Wash the area with soap and water, then pat it dry.
  • Cover it with a loose bandage, blister pad, or moleskin “donut” so pressure stays off the blister.
  • Avoid popping it if you can, because that raises the risk of infection.
  • If it opens on its own, do not peel off the loose skin; clean it, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment, and re-cover it with a clean nonstick dressing.
  • Wear roomier shoes and moisture-wicking socks so the blister is not rubbed again.

When to get help

Get medical care if you notice redness spreading, warmth, pus, worsening pain, swelling, fever, or if you have diabetes, poor circulation, or repeated blisters.

What not to do

Do not keep walking on it in the same tight shoes, and do not cut off the skin roof unless a clinician tells you to. For a small friction blister, simple protection is usually enough, but a large, very painful, or infected blister may need professional care.