Let the healing process begin.

A kiss from Mom used to be all it took to fix a boo-boo. As an adult, you’ll need to help the healing yourself. Luckily, a little vigilance - and the right wound care products - can help you get back to normal as quickly as possible.

After-surgery incisions

Don’t wash the area for at least 24 hours after surgery. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.

Check the wound daily for signs of infection, such as redness or swelling, pain or itching, or yellow or green discharge. If signs occur, contact your doctor.

Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling your wound.

If your wound is covered with adhesive surgical strips, do not remove them. Leave them in place until they loosen or fall off on their own.

For new incisions, clean, protect and cover your wound with waterproof, breathable dressings.

Cuts, scrapes and abrasions

Clean and dry the affected area.

If your wound has moderate to heavy drainage, cover with a highly absorbent gauze pad to keep fluids from soaking through.

For light to moderate draining wounds, use a waterproof and breathable covering that holds securely, yet conforms to skin.

If you have a minor deep cut, clean the wound and close securely with sterilized skin closures. They’ll reduce the risk of infection and provide better cosmetic results. See a doctor for more severe cuts that could require sutures.

Change the dressing if it becomes wet or dirty.

Check your wound daily for signs of infection. If infection occurs, contact your doctor.

Use a transparent dressing to keep your scrape or abrasion moist to improve healing. Studies have shown that when a wound is kept moist and not allowed to scab over, it is less painful and heals faster.

Blisters and minor burns

Do not break the blister. If the blister is open or broken, clean and remove all dirt from the area, and dry thoroughly.

For burns, immediately cool the burn under cold water or ice until the pain subsides (approximately 20 minutes). Gently blot dry with a sterile gauze or clean cloth.

Apply an antiseptic spray or ointment, if desired.

Protect the blistered or burned area with a transparent dressing and gauze pad.

Check the blister or burn daily. Change dressings as needed.

IMPORTANT: For more serious burns where the skin becomes white or charred, do not apply water, antiseptic sprays, ointments or home remedies. Call your doctor immediately.

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