Friction, like that caused by new or ill-fitting shoes, is the main cause of blisters. Heat and skin diseases can also raise these bubbles on the skin's surface. The often painful bubbles, formed when clear liquid serum leaks from the damaged blood vessels underneath the skin, act as a form of protection.

The first treatment choice is to leave a blister alone: New skin will form under it, absorbing the fluid, and the outer layer of skin will eventually fall away. Consult a physician for especially large or troublesome blisters, a rash with blisters, a viral infection like chicken pox, or a bullous (blister-causing) disorder. Bullous disorders, including eczema, impetigo, and dermatitis herpetiformis, are potentially serious.

Home remedies for blisters consist of poultices, washes, and oils. Native Americans drew out blisters with a decoction of pipsissewa. This herb, as well as echinacea, aloe vera gel, plantain, chamomile, arnica, and tea tree oil, soothes the skin.

Herbal Remedies

Echinacea The polysaccharides in echinacea promote healing. To make a tincture, add 3 tablespoons chopped roots to 1 cup ethyl alcohol. Strain, then apply. Extracts and ointments are available.

Pipsissewa This wildflower contains traces of helpful glycosides resins, antiseptic methyl salicylate, and astringent tannins. Apply a poultice of fresh leaves, a decoction of dried leaves, or the leaf extract. Capsules and tablets are available but are not for external use.