Instead of popping a blister, follow this treatment plan

NBC Selected independently determines what we cover and recommend. When you click on or buy through our links, we earn a commission. Learn more.Skin CareHow to treat and prevent blisters, according to dermatologists and podiatristsWhatever you do, don’t pop your blister. Here’s what medical experts recommend instead.July 30, 2026, 12:28 PM EDTZoe MalinReporterSkip to table of contentsProper blister care includes cleaning the affected area, applying ointment and covering it with a bandage to reduce additional friction.GettyIn this articleOur top picksHow to treat blistersThe best blister treatmentsHow to prevent blistersThe best products to prevent blistersFrequently asked questionsMeet our medical expertsWhy trust NBC Selected?See 5 MoreEverything about blisters is inconvenient. They’re unsightly, often painful and can prevent you from wearing your favorite pair of shoes or comfortably holding a dumbbell. But resist the temptation to pop or pick: Proper care prevents infection and speeds up recovery. I spoke to dermatologists and podiatrists about how to treat blisters and prevent them in the first place. Using their expert guidance, I rounded up over-the-counter products to help you do both from brands like Neosporin, Band-Aid, Vaseline and more.Selected.Our top picksBest bandage for blistersBand-Aid Flexible Fabric Bandages$8.97$11.78AmazonLearn moreBest occlusive ointmentVaseline Original Healing Jelly$undefined$5.48AmazonLearn moreBest shoe cushionsFoot Petals Spot Dot Cushion$8.39$9.95AmazonLearn moreBest shoe stretcherTopsome Shoe Stretcher$undefined$19.99AmazonLearn moreSee 1 MoreRelatedselectedselectedDon’t let the wrong sneakers ruin your run — here’s how to find the perfect pairHow to treat blistersFirst things first: If you have a blister, stop doing whatever initially caused it, says Dr. Stephanie Saxton-Daniels, a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Dallas, Texas. That may mean not wearing a certain pair of shoes or taking a break f...