TO POP OR NOT TO POP?

How to treat blisters

Sadly, even if you do follow all of these preventative steps, it’s possible you still might get blisters – sometimes they are unavoidable, particularly if you’re taking on a challenging multi-day trek. Here’s what to do if you do get one...

Step 1: If your blister is small, without broken skin, it can be left to heal naturally. Simply clean and disinfect the area, and cover it with a gauze dressing or a specialist blister plaster. Once applied, a blister plaster is your ‘second skin’ and should not be peeled off until it detaches naturally.

Step 2: Larger fluid-filled blisters can be popped with a sterilised needle to release pressure, drain fluid and prevent accidental bursting inside your sock. To avoid infection, clean your hands and the affected area thoroughly, and postprocedure apply a blister plaster for cushioning and protection. Broken skin should be left in place and you should never peel or pick at a blister.

Step 3: Where possible, it’s good to give your blisters time to heal – stop walking, give your feet some air, and even consider a salt soak. But, if you’re on a multi-day hike and days off aren’t feasible, try to make some changes to reduce the irritation such as switching in a new pair of socks or applying Vaseline.