How to treat a blister caused by a cigarette burn

Generally, the main steps for treating a blister caused by a cigarette burn include moving away from the heat source and cooling the area, cleaning and disinfecting the wound, protecting the blister skin, avoiding pressure or rupture, and seeking timely medical treatment. Proper management is essential to prevent infection and scar formation. Specific measures are as follows:

1. Move away from the heat source and cool the area

Immediately remove the cigarette and rinse the burned area with 15–20°C running cool water for 10–15 minutes. Cold water helps dissipate residual heat, reduces damage to deeper tissues, alleviates pain, and lowers the risk of blister expansion.

2. Clean and disinfect the wound

After cooling, gently wipe the wound and surrounding skin with sterile saline solution to remove contaminants. Then use a cotton swab dipped in iodophor to disinfect the area. Iodophor is mild and effective at killing surface bacteria, reducing the risk of infection.

3. Protect the blister skin

The blister's outer skin acts as a natural protective barrier against pathogens. Small blisters should not be punctured; simply cover them with sterile gauze. For large blisters that interfere with movement, a healthcare professional should drain the fluid using a sterile needle. Never peel off the skin yourself.

4. Avoid pressure or rupture

Avoid friction and pressure on the burned area during daily activities. Wear loose clothing to minimize contact with the wound. If the blister accidentally breaks, re-disinfect the area and replace the dressing with clean gauze. Keep the wound dry to prevent bacterial growth from exudate.

5. Seek medical attention promptly

Immediate medical care is necessary if the blister becomes infected after rupture, if redness, swelling, and pain worsen, or if pus develops. Burns on special areas such as the face or joints should also be evaluated by a professional to prevent functional impairment and noticeable scarring.

When smoking, always ensure cigarette butts are properly extinguished before disposal. During recovery, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and increase intake of protein-rich foods to promote healing. Maintain wound cleanliness, change dressings regularly, monitor healing progress, and seek follow-up care promptly if any abnormalities occur.