Caring for cuts and scrapes
Did you scrape your knees rollerblading or cut your finger chopping vegetables? Small accidents are part and parcel of everyday life. Luckily, there are simple ways to heal these minor injuries and get over them fast.
To heal a minor wound well and fast, follow these three important steps.
1) Clean
Start by cleaning the wound to remove all traces of infection-causing germs and dirt. Use plain water or mild soap, then rinse. Never disinfect with rubbing alcohol.
2) Treat
To help prevent infections, treat the wound with an antibiotic ointment. If the wound is not bleeding or open, you can apply a repairing balm; the same goes for mild burns or irritation.
3) Protect
Protect the wound with a bandage and make sure you change it daily. Bandages provide protection against dirt and other external irritants, while also promoting healing.
Types of bandages
At the pharmacy, you will find various types of bandages for minor wounds. All work equally well, depending on how they are used.
Plastic bandages are more resistant to water and dirt than their fabric counterparts, but they tend to come off. This means they need to be replaced often.
Fabric bandages are stretchable, making them perfect for joints, since they mould snugly to the skin and stay securely in place. Just be sure to keep them away from water.
As for liquid bandages, they are useful for hard-to-reach places, such as between the toes or fingers. There are also special bandages for blisters and burns.
Balms that heal
Once you remove a bandage, the skin underneath might still be sensitive and irritated. A repairing cream can then be used to aid in the recovery of the skin barrier. Remember that the longer healing takes, the higher the risk of the injury leaving a scar or visible mark.
Commercially available repairing balms have soothing, healing and protective properties to help alleviate red, cracked, chapped or irritated skin. With hydration, your skin will regain its suppleness and return to its normal appearance in no time at all.
Pharmacy services
For additional wound care tips, talk to your pharmacist!
The pharmacy services presented in this section are offered by pharmacist owners who are affiliated with Uniprix. The pharmacists are solely responsible for the professional activities carried out during the practice of pharmacy. These services are offered in participating pharmacies only. Certain fees and conditions may apply.
* The information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide complete information on the subject matter or to replace the advice of a health professional. This information does not constitute medical consultation, diagnosis or opinion and should not be interpreted as such. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions about your health, medications or treatment.