A large, ugly scab can ruin your appearance at an important event because you can't wear a skirt or shorts, and it's unsightly. The most effective way to get rid of a scab is to bandage it properly so it can heal quickly. You can also try some gentle grooming techniques to reduce discomfort and minimize scabs. One most important thing, don't gouge the scabs!
Step
Method 1 of 2: Bandaging the Scab
Step 1. Make sure the scab is not leaking liquid
Before dressing a scab or wound properly, you need to let it dry. If the wound is bleeding, apply sterile, non-adhesive gauze over it. If blood seeps into the gauze, do not remove the gauze. If you remove it, blood will come out again from the wound when you pull on the healed tissue. Just add another gauze on top.
Leave the gauze there until the wound stops oozing
Step 2. Clean the area around the scab
Even if your wound has started to scab, you should keep it clean and moist. This can speed healing. Wash the area with soap and warm water, then rinse. Dry the wound by patting it gently.
Step 3. Moisturize the scab to speed healing
The old way of thinking was that a dry scab would speed healing, but modern research reveals that the best way to treat it is to keep it moist. Apply petrolatum (petroleum jelly) to the scab and the area around it after you've cleaned it.
You can also use an antibacterial ointment to replace petrolatum, but this isn't necessary for most wounds
Step 4. Cover the scab
After moisturizing, immediately cover the scab using a sterile, non-adhesive bandage, such as gauze tied with tape. You can also use silicone gel sheets (available at the pharmacy), non-stick gauze bandages, or non-adhesive gauze rolls, especially if you have large scabs.
Step 5. Put on a new bandage every day
While waiting for the scab to heal, change the bandage daily and clean the wound area. Moisturize the scab again and cover it with a new bandage.
The scab won't go away instantly, but it can speed up the healing process
Method 2 of 2: Treating Scabs
Step 1. Massage the scab for comfort
Do not pick at the scab as this can cause scarring and even delay healing. If you want to relieve itching while helping to get rid of the scab, gently massage the scab with a small amount of petrolatum or moisturizing lotion. This can be done every time you apply a new bandage.
Step 2. Try applying a soothing warm compress
For instant comfort, dip a clean cloth in warm water. Hold it on the scab for 15 minutes, but don't rub or rub it. This can reduce the discomfort from irritation that makes you want to pick the scab off. The water will also moisturize the scab so it can speed up healing.
Step 3. Brush the skin with homemade paste when the scab has come off
Make a paste by mixing baking soda with enough water. Apply the paste all over the scab and let it dry. Next, rinse the scab with warm water. This will tighten the scab and gently pull it away from the skin.
- You can do the same with alum (a product derived from naturally occurring aluminum salts), which is often used as a deodorant and as an astringent (or astringent). You can get it at the pharmacy.
- Alum tightens the scab by constricting the surrounding blood vessels, and will eventually loosen the scab from its anchorage in the skin.
Step 4. Apply the natural remedy on the scab
Some natural products can kill germs so that they will help heal wounds and remove scabs. Dip a cotton swab in the natural material, then apply it to the scab. Let the product sit there for a few minutes, then rinse and apply a fresh coat. Some natural ingredients that can be used include:
- Tea tree oil
- Honey
- Aloe vera gel
- Apple cider vinegar (mix 1 part vinegar with 10 parts water)
Tips
- Don't keep touching the scab as this can make you want to pick it up.
- Wash your hands before handling the scab.
- Do not pick at the scab as this will delay the healing process and may result in scarring.
- Do not apply makeup to the scab. Your makeup will look messy and the scab won't be able to be covered.
