Three simple steps for quicker and safer wound healing
Minor injuries are part and parcel of an active lifestyle
Cleaning and protecting minor wounds ensure you and your family can get back to doing what you love, quicker. Remember the following 3 simple steps when treating minor wounds for faster healing and protection against infection.
1. Wash
You can’t see them, but viruses and bacteria are everywhere and your skin acts as a natural barrier against them. Once the skin is broken, germs can quickly and easily make their way into the body, causing painful and sometimes dangerous infections. Thoroughly washing your hands before treating any open cuts, grazes or abrasions can help prevent bacteria from making its way into the body.
2. Clean
For the same reason you should always wash your hands when treating a wound, you should make sure cuts and grazes are properly cleaned. Dirt and debris can get into the wound when the accident happens, spreading bacteria around the body. To help prevent infection, rinse the area with clean water removing anything you can see in the cut. If you notice anything embedded in the area do not attempt to remove it yourself, instead you should seek medical assistance. Antiseptic wipes or spray are useful for when you’re out and about without access to clean water and need to quickly clean a small cut or graze. Antiseptic products also ensure all bacteria in the wound is killed instantly, reducing the risk of developing an infection.
3. Protect
When you have a cut, graze or abrasion you should cover it with a plaster. It’s an old wives’ tale that wounds heal better when left to dry in the open air. An uncovered injury is at risk of bacteria and contamination, as well as friction, bumps and scratches. Covering all cuts and grazes with a plaster helps the body heal naturally and undisturbed.
Once you have washed, cleaned and protected the cut or graze with a plaster, it should be left to heal on its own. Try not to interfere by picking or scratching the forming scab. This can leave a scar and reopen the wound.
If you notice any of the following symptoms you should contact your doctor or healthcare professional:
- Increased redness or swelling
- Pain that gets worse
- Skin around the wound feels warm
- Unpleasant odour when cleaning the wound
- Unusual or increased drainage
- Fever or chills
Small, large, discrete or detectable, extra strong and for sensitive skin. Safe and Sound have a plaster for every requirement. Find the full range online at safeandsoundhealth.co.uk or shop instore in most high street pharmacies as well as Boots, Asda, Argos and Ocado.
