Skin blisters are as much a part of jogging as sore muscles are the day after: this common assumption is a misconception, says sports dermatologist Christoph Liebich from Munich. Blisters are not an issue for those who wear the right shoes and take care of their feet, explains the doctor in an interview.
SZ: Mr. Liebich, let’s start with the question of all skin blisters: Should you pierce them or not?
Christoph Liebich: If the blister is already really thick and filled with liquid, I would advise puncturing it. This provides relief and often prevents the blister from getting any bigger. It is best to use a sterile cannula for piercing so that the wound is not contaminated and inflammation occurs.
And then?
In our practice, we remove the blister roof, i.e. the overlying skin. But laypeople should do without it and rather leave the bubble roof on. It is best to stick a hydrocolloid bandage on the wound – a so-called blister plaster, which is available in pharmacies. This ensures a moist environment, which accelerates the healing process.
Sports dermatologist Christoph Liebich
(Photo: private)
What exactly is a bubble?
Blisters are caused by permanent mechanical pressure on the skin. Through the penetration of the liquid, the body creates a kind of buffer here, so that the skin is protected.
So are skin blisters an inevitable nuisance for joggers?
no If you wear suitable shoes and socks and also take care of your feet regularly, blisters should not be an issue. Especially when it comes to running shoes, I advise you to buy from a professional and not just look at the money. The shoes should not be too big and not too small so that there is no unnecessary friction when jogging. The same goes for the socks: they should fit well, be nice and comfortable.
And what about the hard skin on your toes and heels, which almost inevitably forms when you run regularly?
There we are when it comes to foot care. Calluses should be removed regularly – just like calluses and corns. I also recommend skin care with rich ingredients. For example, there are special foot creams with a high urea content. You can also apply it a little thicker at night and then simply pull a sock over it so that the cream can take effect.