The first sign of a blister is a 'hot-spot' of irritated, sore skin. Putting zinc oxide tape or plasters over the hotspot creates an additional layer, which takes the friction instead. This can also be done preventatively on known hotspots. A blister plaster is designed specifically to act as a second skin. Make sure they are warm and the foot dry before applying, but once they are on properly they should stay in place for 24 hours and be very effective. Feet An effective, short-term measure is to cover the foot and affected area in petroleum jelly. This should provide some relief from pain as it protects the skin and lubricates. However, as the heat from your foot melts the petroleum jelly it runs away and is ineffective. Draining a blister

First, let’s clarify what a “hot spot” is, versus a “bubbly blister”. A hot spot is the beginning of an oncoming blister at the initial sign of friction. Think of it as Phase 1 in the blister formation process. A bubbly blister is Phase 2, once the hot spot has fully formed into a mature blister. Each phase requires different management. Unless the maximum level of support is required, avoid applying the tape directly to the skin. Applying pre-wrap first, and then using zinc oxide tape over the pre wrap will help to prevent blisters.The general rule is to keep it clean and keep it covered. Usually a blister will go down of its own accord within a couple of days; if it does burst then treat as above. You can also buy these tapes with or without latex. Latex free tapes like DynaPro Health Porous Zinc Oxide Tape are more easily tolerated over long periods of time by individuals with a history of latex allergies. They are also less likely to cause adverse reactions from individuals with generally sensitive skin. Porous Zinc Oxide tape

The more powerful adhesive in rigid strapping tapes provides additional support and stability and prevents injury. However, this adhesive may cause medical reactions in certain individuals. In these cases it may be necessary to wear a hypoallergenic fixing bandage between the tape and the skin. Latex Free Zinc Oxide Tape See if you tend to ‘claw’ your toes during running. This means you tend to flex your toes into the sole of the shoe for extra stability, it causes greater pressure and friction at the end of the toes. To remedy this try and consciously relax the toes from this position, you may also need to work on your balance to improve your stability. Keep a loose, relaxed grip when rowing or sculling – this is probably the single most important factor in blister prevention. Allow your hands to “breathe” between strokes. Keep your skin healthy – stay hydrated, eat healthily, use hand-cream if your hands are dry or chapped Surely every runner ever has had a blister? They can range from a barely noticeable bubble to a toe that looks like an angry cherry tomato! At their worst, they can make running an uncomfortable nightmare or stop you altogether. So what can you do about them?

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If possible choose grips that work for you – you will be surprised how much difference there is in diameter, materials and smoothness. Experiment and if you do get sore hands, change! If a blister pops, the skin underneath is exposed and it will not be able to heal. Even worse, if you have not resolved the friction that caused the blister in the first place, the blister will sometimes reform as a painful 'blister on a blister'. Drain the fluid but leave as much of the skin as possible covering the wound. This is an important protective layer for the underlying skin and will help to prevent infection.