Our Top-Rated Podiatrists Explain Ways to Help Avoid Blisters and Why They Should Be Taken Seriously
Blisters are an extremely common skin condition that develop when fluid fills a space between layers of skin, forming a bubble of liquid. This pocket of fluid called serum leaks in from other tissues due to injured skin. Small, unbroken blisters should be left alone and will usually heal naturally. However, some blisters, especially blood blisters, can be painful and/or become infected. These can be potentially dangerous, especially when they don’t heal normally. Here, the experienced podiatrists at Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists discuss blisters, how to help prevent them, and when to see a podiatrist about them. 
How to Help Prevent Foot Blisters
Painful skin irritations known as blisters can occur at any spot on the body where skin rubs together, or clothing can chafe or scratch the skin. There are many precautions you can take to help avoid blisters, especially on your feet. When you know your physical activity could cause a blister, here are some common ways to help prevent one from developing:
Buy the Right Shoes
Shoes are usually mass-produced and not built for each person’s unique foot shape and precise size. Getting shoes that are the best fit possible will reduce the risk of blisters. This means ensuring that your shoes have plenty of room in the toe box so you can wiggle your toes freely and they don’t rub against each other or the insides of the shoe. There should be a finger width between the end of your toes and the end of your shoe.
Additionally, when you try on a new pair of shoes, do so with the thickness of the socks you plan to wear with them. If you plan to wear athletic shoes that are engineered for specific purposes, they should be made of breathable materials and provide proper arch support.
Break in New Shoes Gradually
New shoes often create blisters because your feet and the shoes aren’t accustomed to each other yet. Don’t wear your new shoes for the first time for a long walk, hike, or run. Instead, even if your new shoes are exactly the same brand and model you are used to, wear each new pair for short periods initially.
Avoid Rough Edges
If the seams of your shoes or socks or the edges of your insoles are rubbing on your feet or toes, you might need a different style. There are socks and shoes that have no seams inside. Alternatively, you may be able to lubricate your feet with various products, including petroleum jelly. Moleskin or soft bandages can also protect your skin from rubbing.
Toughen the Skin
People who run marathons and walk long distances often apply tannic acid to their feet or soak them in tea to make the skin tougher. This can be done twice per day for two to three weeks.
Moisturize Daily
Although it is normal for people who run or walk a lot to build up calluses, allowing calluses to become too dry can lead to cracked heels, which increase the risk of infection. For this reason, it is important to apply a good hand or foot cream daily after you bathe or shower.
Choose Socks Carefully
Natural cotton socks retain sweat, which can soften the skin and make it more prone to friction damage. Synthetic socks are generally better at wicking away sweat and keeping feet dry. You can also purchase socks that are two layers thick or wear two pairs of socks for extra protection. The inner layer should always be a wicking fabric. Switching into different socks part way through your activity can also help your feet dry out and reduce your risk of blisters.
Prepare Your Footwear
Corn starch or talcum powder in your shoes and socks can help to keep your feet dry. For long-distance events, you might need to reapply mid-way through the event.
How to Treat a Blister
If you have developed a foot blister, you can take the following steps to help it heal:
- Avoid popping or draining it unless it is causing you pain.
- If you must drain it to relieve discomfort, use a small, needle you have sterilized with rubbing alcohol to pierce one edge of the blister and allow fluid to drain.
- Leave a “roof” on the blister to protect the skin below while it heals.
- Wash the area with soap and water, and apply petroleum jelly after draining.
- Cover the blister loosely with a bandage.
- Use padding to form a “donut” with a hole in the middle for the blister.
Contact Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists for Problematic Blisters
Keep an eye on your blister as it is healing. If you see any of the following, which could be a sign of infection, schedule an appointment to see a member of our Central Texas podiatry team:
- Failure to heal
- Redness
- Pus that is white or milky yellow
- Increased Pain
- Swelling
- Skin around the blister that is warm
- A bad odor
Red or purple streaks on the skin could indicate cellulitis, a bacterial infection that can become life-threatening if not treated immediately. Seek emergency care if you notice this symptom.