Blisters are common maladies that face hikers of all experience levels. Blisters commonly occur when you hike in new boots or shoes that haven't been broken in properly. When a "hot spot" suddenly feels better, it's likely that the blister cushion has formed.What is a blister?

A blister is formed when a particular piece of skin experiences continual rubbing. A blister typically forms where your boot rubs your foot (directly or through your sock), or where debris such as dirt, pebbles, or pine needles get into your sock. To fight this irritation, your body produces a layer of liquid underneath the skin, and a blister forms.How do I treat a blister?

1. Gently clean the blister. If it's closed (not broken), wash it with soap and water, and clean the surrounding skin.
2. Create a cushioning "blister bandage." Cut a hole in a piece of Moleskin or Molefoam so that the opening fits the blister and attach the sticky side of the ring to the skin.
3. Fill the "donut hole" that exposes the blister with a piece of Spenco 2nd Skin, wet side down.
4. Cover everything with another layer of Moleskin and tape.

If the blister fluid is cloudy or appears infected, drain the blister by cutting a small opening at its base near the junction with normal unblistered skin.

If the blister is torn or after you drain it, apply an antiseptic ointment (such as mupirocin [Bactroban]) and cover the blister with a sterile gauze dressing.

First Aid: Ankle Sprains

First Aid: Burns

First Aid: Cuts and Scrapes

First Aid: First Aid Kit

First Aid: Frostbite

First Aid: Sunburn