What are blisters and how do they develop?
If the skin is continually plagued by pressure or friction, a blister may form. The upper layer of the skin detaches from the underlying layers due to friction or pressure. A blister filled with tissue fluid forms in that spot. The body makes the blister to protect the wound against even more friction or pressure.
Blisters develop when a part of the skin suffers a lot of friction. Especially when the skin is damp blisters can easily develop. First a red spot appears at that location. If the friction persists, a cavity with liquid is created. Abnormal friction can be caused by:
- Poorly fitting socks or socks with seams/irregularities
- Wrong size shoes (too large or too small)
- Disorders of the feet (for example corns or hammer toes)
- Long hikes, downhill terrain can accelerate blistering
Damp promotes the development of blisters. Make sure your feet and socks are as dry as possible. In addition, take measures to prevent blisters from developing as much as possible, for example by using Camphor, foot powder or tape.
Preventing blisters
You can prevent blisters by wearing well-fitting and comfortable shoes. Even then, a long walk or hike can lead to blisters. You can prevent this by first treating your feet with Foot Powder from Care Plus®. This foot powder absorbs moisture, dries the feet and helps prevent blisters.
If you really want to minimise the chances of blisters, use the Care Plus® Camphor Spray every day from three weeks before a hiking or trekking trip. Spraying your feet daily with this foot spray ensures that the skin becomes harder, preventing blisters.
Treating blisters
Treat your blister well if you have one. The blister can burst if the pressure or friction is not relieved with a good blister plaster. You will have an open wound that can easily become infected. Blister plasters reduce pressure and pain and can prevent infection. Our Blisters Plasters are available in Small, Medium and Finger & Toe. The right plaster for every blister.
