Wound Treatment Myths and Facts

Here are some wound treatments myths and facts to consider this summer.

To Bandage or not to Bandage

Myth: The best way for a cut to heal is to keep it exposed to allow a scab to form.

Truth: Use a bandage to help a wound heal faster. The protective covering of a bandage forces the edges of the cut skin back together. A scab is dry skin that acts as a wedge forcing the broken skin apart, making it more difficult for wounds to heal quickly, without scarring. Scabbing shouldn't happen because dry, crusted wounds don't heal as fast and studies have shown that wounds covered with a bandage have lower rates of infection.

Keep It Moist

Myth: When treating a wound, keep skin as dry as possible.

Truth: Moist skin heals fastest because the task of healing a wound requires the activity of cells. Cells cannot function in a dry environment. They need moisture to do their repair work.

As the wound dries out, it begins to crust, forming a scab causing the cells to work harder to repair the injury. The key to healing a cut is maintaining the right amount of moisture. Keeping the cut covered with a bandage and adding a medicated ointment will ensure it stays moist.

Scrub Time

Myth: Always let blood run through a cut to disinfect the area.

Truth: It is important to keep the area around the cut or scrape clean and to remove excess oil, dirt and grime from the skin that may prevent the bandage from sticking. Carefully cleanse the affected area with water, add a medicated ointment and then quickly apply a protective bandage – best ones to use are the island feature like the Nexcare ™ First Aid bandages

Taking it Off

Myth: The best way to rip a bandage off is in one quick pull.

Truth: It's actually better to pull the bandage off slowly and in the direction of natural hair growth. If the bandage is difficult to remove, dab the edges with baby oil or rubbing alcohol to allow the bandage to lift off with ease. Ripping the bandage off could cause the wound to reopen. Choose bandage that is right for your skin – there are many types of adhesives, from gentle paper to heavy duty.

Courtesy of Nexcare™ First Aid