Blisters are little, fluid-filled bumps on the epidermis or the outermost part of the skin. These bumps are your body’s way of telling you something is going on on your skin. Blisters are your body’s auto-immune response to skin damage.
It’s better to leave them be to do their job because blisters are also wounds that can heal over a certain period. Some blisters may be painful and uncomfortable. Blisters are usually the results of skin friction. (Read Hiking Essentials for Beginners)
Frequent skin irritation causes blisters to form. Skin friction may be the common cause of blister formation. But, there are also other causes that you need to look at. Burns, frostbites, eczema, and allergies can also cause blisters. Exposure to poisonous substances, bacteria, and viruses can cause blisters as well.
Blisters on Toes
Blisters can be small or big bumps. The size of the bumps varies depending on the cause of the blister formation. Blisters can develop anywhere in your body. It may make you quite uncomfortable and affect your daily routine.
A blister on the foot, especially on the toes, can cause difficulty in everyday tasks like walking and standing. For some, it can be intolerable even when they do light workouts. Blisters usually form on the feet, especially on toes. This is understandable, knowing that the feet are most exposed to bacteria and germs.
Causes of Toe Blisters
Toe blisters are the results of too much skin friction. Walking and standing for long hours makes you exert significant pressure on your feet.
The heels and toes are the most vulnerable parts of the feet. Your toes can have high risks of developing blisters the longer you exert pressure on it.
You may think you are safe because you do not seem to walk or stand for several hours. Do not be so sure because blisters can also result from wrong fitting shoes.
Anything too much is harmful. Loose shoes may give you the same risk of developing blisters as a tight shoe.
Fitted shoes can be uncomfortable and can rub with your skin. Exerting continuous pressure on your feet can cause fluid build-up. Due to the fluid build-up on the outer skin, there is an excellent possibility of blister formation. (Read Best Water Shoes for Hiking)
Moisture, sweat, and perspiration are also factors that can contribute to blister formation. Athletes and runners particularly get these during warmer seasons. Sweat clogs up the feet’ pores and can form bumps, which then turns into blisters.
Home Remedies for Blisters on Toes
Blisters on foot treatment may come in the form of antibacterial creams or ointments. You can also supplement it with traditional medicine like using ingredients readily available in your home.
A blisters’ bump can be sore and itchy. It may be tempting to prick and burst a blister. Admit it, you also thought of that once. Kidding aside, blisters may need a little time to disappear on its own. Pricking and bursting it can lead to infection.
Bandaging the blister can contain the infection while in the healing process. Blisters disappear on their own. You may see a specialist once it stays for a while without signs of healing.
Although it is best to leave the blister alone, draining it can bring you relief. Draining a blister is a meticulous process. It requires concentration and a strong will because, to be honest, it can sting.
To drain the blister, start by washing your hands with a bar of antibacterial soap and running water. Prepare a needle and soak it in alcohol for disinfection. Proceed to clean the outer part of the blister with antiseptic. (Read Are Duck Boots Good for Hiking)
Take the needle with your clean hands and poke the blister to create a small puncture. Let the fluid drain and apply antibacterial cream afterward. Dress the punctured blister and wrap it with sterile gauze.
After draining the fluid build-up from the blister, continue to clean it. Apply antibacterial cream every day. Make sure to cover the blister until it dries up and heals.
Natural Treatments for your Toe Blisters
To supplement modern medicine in treating blisters, you can also incorporate traditional medicine. Natural remedies are available at home and are inexpensive.
Aloe Vera
Applying aloe vera can help ease the pain caused by sunburn blisters. Aloe vera has a cooling effect that can soothe the burning sensation of sunburn blisters. You can store it in the refrigerator for future use too.
Green Tea and Tea Tree Extracts
Green tea and tea tree extracts are both an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. These properties may mend wounds. An ointment with a green tea or tea tree component is likely to speed up the healing process.
You can mix green tea or tea tree extract with coconut or almond oil to produce an organic ointment. But you can also apply the extract to the blister.
Eucalyptus oil
Eucalyptus oil contains antiseptic and antimicrobial properties that can sterilize and disinfect blisters.
It is better to use olive oil, among other carrier oils, to serve as a base oil for the eucalyptus extract. The ratio should be 1:1. You can also apply the eucalyptus oil straight to the blister.
Prevent Blisters on Toes
Preventing toe blisters has an underlying root. Wearing nice fitted shoes lessen the chances of developing blisters on your toes. Wearing a rubber insole may give you extra protection against skin friction. Insoles serve as an extra layer of skin so your actual skin can be safe.
Athletes and exercise enthusiasts must always keep dry and moist free feet. Natural foot powders can aid in excessive feet sweating. Moisture absorbent socks are also great for blister prevention.
Avoid any cosmetic product if you feel some discomfort and irritation while using it. Allergens from these products can trigger the formation of itchy blisters. Discontinuing the use of irritants reduces the chances of having toe blisters. (Read Best Mountain Biking Shoes)
If you experience significant discomfort and pain, you should seek medical advice immediately. Specialists may ask you to undergo a series of tests and exams to find the root cause of your blisters.
Remember, walking can take you to beautiful places. That’s why looking after those toes is essential.
