Blisters
Blisters are small sacs of fluid beneath the first couple layers of skin. They are caused most often by damage to the outside layer of skin, or epidermis. Fluid builds up beneath the damaged layer of skin, cushioning the wound and helping it to heal.Causes
Blisters are most commonly caused by heat or friction damage to the epidermis, causing a tear between the epidermis and the layers of skin beneath. A clear fluid called serum fills this space between the skin layers, causing a blister to form. Blisters are most prevalent on the feet and hands, since they are the most susceptible to friction, heat, and the repetitive motions that may cause a blister. They are more common in warmer conditions, and will form more easily on moist skin than soaked or dry skin.Treatment and Prevention
In order to prevent blisters on the feet, it is imperative that you wear moisture-absorbing socks since blisters will happen much more easily on moist skin. Also, you may want to sprinkle a moisture-absorbing powder like talcum powder inside your shoes or socks to prevent friction that may cause blisters.Most blisters will heal easily on their own. You should never try to pop a blister unless it is in a place where you think it may get popped anyways from your daily activities (ie, if you have a blister along the back of your heel, and you are planning to wear shoes with a strap that touches that part of your foot, it may be better to just pop the blister yourself). However, if you can, it is always best to just leave it alone and let it heal naturally.
When popping a blister, do NOT remove the dead layer of skin that is covering the fluid sac. Simply sterilize a needle and your blister using rubbing alcohol and puncture the fluid sac once or twice. Make sure you have washed your hands, then slowly apply pressure to the fluid sac and allow the fluid to drain out. Apply an antibiotic ointment such as neosporin, and then dress the wound with a sterile bandage.
Remember, with blisters, prevention is key. Make sure to wear shoes that have already been worn in if you are planning to hike or exercise, and wear thick socks that will still let your feet breath such as SmoothToe socks to keep your feet as dry as possible. As soon as you start to feel excess friction (commonly called a 'hot spot'), apply a piece of duct tape or a product called moleskin to the hotspot to take most of the friction off your skin and prevent it from becoming a blister. If you do develop a blister, follow the instructions above.