ITV This Morning's Dr Zoe Williams says people using plasters wrong - risking infection and scars
ITV This Morning's Dr Zoe Williams says people using plasters wrong - risking infection and scars
The resident GP has also cleared up whether you are supposed to pick scabs
Dr Zoe Williams and fellow ITV GP Dr Hilary Jone
The biggest mistake when treating a wound is letting it 'dry out' - which could lead to needing professional treatment, according to This Morning's resident GP Dr Zoe Williams. If left uncovered, even tiny cuts can get infected and activities where it will get wet such as showering or swimming can cause the skin to swell.
This not only impairs wound closure, but bacteria and germs can penetrate the body and cause infection. A survey by Elastoplast found 42 per cent of people are under the impression letting a wound breathe is the best way for it to heal.
But Dr Zoe said leaving a graze to air increases the likelihood of infection and instead recovers quickly if they are in a moist, clean environment, which also helps reduce scarring. Dr Zoe said: 'Even small or seemingly insignificant wounds benefit from being covered, but of course it's also important to clean a graze beforehand.
'Protecting a wound with a dressing can be supported by using a healing ointment or using a hydrocolloid plaster which allows the cut to maintain a moist environment and offer benefits including improved pain relief and longer wear. This is not only important for rapid healing, but also to minimise scarring."
A further 27 per cent have touched a wound before washing their hands and 47 per cent have picked at a scab - which Dr Zoe warned can delay the healing process.
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A spokesperson for Elastoplast said: "Treating a small wound might seem simple, but it's crucial to follow the right steps to avoid infection and scarring. The insights show how public perceptions often differ from expert advice, which may explain why some people have gone on to develop complications like scarring or infection.'
DR ZOE'S FIVE STEPS FOR TREATING A WOUND:
1. Wash hands thoroughly 2. Rinse the wound with clean water or wound spray 3. Gently dry with a clean cloth 4. Cover with a suitable-sized plaster 5. Seek wound care guidance from a healthcare professional if the wound isn't healing properly
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