Blisters

A blister or bulla is a defence mechanism of the human body. When the outer (epidermis) layer of the skin separates from the fibre layer (dermis), a pool of lymph and other bodily fluids collect between these layers while the skin re-grows from underneath.

Blisters can be caused by chemical or physical injury. An example of chemical injury would be an allergic reaction. Physical injury can be caused by heat, frostbite, or friction. Blisters typically develop when there is friction and irritation to the surface layer of the skin  that cause it to separate from the second layer. Fluid fills in the space between these two layers. Blisters most often appear on the soles of the feet and palms of the hands. The hands and feet often rub against shoes, socks, or sports and music equipment and create friction under moist, warm conditions perfect for Blisters .

Preventing Blisters
Minimizing friction is the primary method of preventing blisters. Appropriate footwear, socks, and gloves for work involving frequent hand use will help reduce Blisters. Making sure that shoes are the right size and shape, and that socks are made from a synthetic blend is an effective way of reducing the occurrence of Blisters . Other effective ways to reduce Blisters is to apply petroleum jelly or talcum powder before exercising to reduce friction.

Treatment... Unless infection occurs, Blisters usually heal quickly without much additional treatment. If a blister is punctured, it forms an open wound, which should be disinfected and bandaged. Loose bandaging should be used since a bandage that is too tight can result in rupture or rubbing against the blister, causing discomfort.

If the blister is broken, the excess skin  should not be removed (unless it is dirty or torn). Removing the excess skin often makes the wound heal any infection quickly - if immediately disinfected. Signs of infection include pus draining from the blister , very red or warm skin around the blister , and red streaks leading away from the blister. Small unbroken Blisters that do not cause discomfort can be left alone to heal, because the best protection against infection is a blister's own skin .

Essental oil treatments
Blisters of the kind that occur due to rubbing by shoes are best dealt with by covering with gauze that has a few drops of Lavender essential oil sprinkled on it. If the blister is larger it may be more comfortable to puncture it with a sterilised needle before applying neat Lavender essential oil on gauze. Myrrh essential oil can be added in equal proportions to the Lavender essential oils and is valuable if the blister is damp. Benzoin essential oil can be helpful afterwards to help the skin to heal. Benzoin can also aid vulnerable parts of the foot to prevent blisters for those who suffer from these regularly. Do not cover blisters with plasters as the skin needs to breathe and leave shoes and socks off as much as possible to allow the air to reach the skin.

Benzoin Essential Oil

10ml bottle of Benzoin Essential Oil

£3.75

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender has been used continuously for thousands of years and its popularity has only ever increased. If you could have no other essential oil in your house, then Lavender would be the prime choice: It has a wide range of uses and is a natural antibiotic, anti-depressant, sedative and de-toxifier.

£2.75

Myrrh Essential Oil

Myrrh is good for many skin conditions including woulds, weeping sores, athletes foot and cracked skin. Useful for chest infections and can help with diarhhoea and stomach pains.

£8.75