How to treat abraded skin

May 30, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am a 25-year-old male. Today, I accidentally fell during outdoor activities, resulting in a skin abrasion on my knee. Although the wound is not large, it feels somewhat painful, and I don't know how to properly manage it. How should a skin abrasion be treated?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin

Treatment of scraped skin requires timely cleaning, disinfection, and wound protection. A scrape refers to an injury caused by friction or impact to the skin's surface, usually accompanied by mild bleeding and pain. If not treated promptly, the wound can easily become infected, prolonging the healing time.

It is recommended to first gently rinse the wound with running clean water to remove surface dirt and foreign matter. Avoid using tap water directly, as it may contain bacteria. Normal saline or povidone-iodine solution can be used for cleaning. Then, use sterile gauze or a cotton swab to gently wipe the skin around the wound and absorb excess moisture. Next, apply an appropriate amount of antibiotic ointment, such as erythromycin ointment or mupirocin ointment, to prevent infection. Finally, cover the wound with sterile gauze and secure it with medical tape. If the wound is large or there is significant bleeding, prompt medical attention should be sought for professional treatment. During the healing process, the wound should be kept dry and clean, avoiding further friction or impact. If signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pus discharge appear, immediate medical care should be sought. Proper wound care can effectively promote healing and reduce scar formation.