Will Epsom Salt Help Blisters on Your Feet? What the Experts Say

You've got a painful blister on your foot. Someone mentions epsom salt might help. But does it actually work?

The short answer: Sometimes. But not always.

Here's what you need to know before you fill that foot basin.

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When Epsom Salt Actually Helps for Foot Blisters

Epsom salt can reduce inflammation and pain in foot blisters [1]. When dissolved in water, it draws out excess fluid around the blister, reducing swelling. The warm water increases blood flow and relieves muscle tension, which eases pain.

This works best on intact blisters, the ones that haven't popped yet.

Warning: Broken Skin Changes Everything

Never use epsom salt on open blisters or broken skin.

Epsom salt dries out skin. If your blister has burst or you have any cuts, the salt will make the damage worse. The wet environment also creates perfect conditions for bacterial and fungal infections.

Open blister? Skip the salt entirely.

» Having foot pain? Find out if it's the right time to see a podiatrist

Why Foot Blisters Form On Your Feet

Understanding why blisters happen helps you decide if epsom salt makes sense for your situation.

Friction causes most foot blisters. Shoes that are too tight or too loose create rubbing against your skin. This damages the top layer (epidermis). Your body forms a fluid-filled bubble to protect the damaged area from more friction [2].

The worst spots? Base of your big toe, little toe, and heel. These areas move the most when you walk and get the most friction from shoes and straps.

Heat makes friction worse. Your feet generate more heat in poorly fitting shoes, speeding up blister formation.

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The Right Way to Use Epsom Salt for Foot Blisters

If your blister is intact and you want to try epsom salt, follow these guidelines exactly [3]:

• Water Temperature: Warm, not hot. 91-99°F (33-37°C). Test with your wrist.
• Salt Ratio: Half cup epsom salt per gallon of water. For smaller basins, use 2 tablespoons per half gallon.
• Soak Time: 5 to 20 minutes maximum.
• Frequency: Once or twice per week only.

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Who Should Never Use Epsom Salt

Three groups should avoid epsom salt soaks completely:

• People With Diabetes: Diabetes causes nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation [4,5]. You might not feel if the water is too hot or if your skin gets damaged. Minor skin breakdown can become serious infections like cellulitis or diabetic foot ulcers.
• Those With Circulation Problems: Peripheral arterial disease limits your body's ability to heal blisters and fight infections [6]. Poor circulation also means reduced sensation, so you won't notice skin damage until it's severe.
• Children and Older Adults: Thinner, more sensitive skin makes burns and irritation more likely. They may not communicate discomfort effectively, especially if cognitive issues are present.

» Find out how rolling your feet improves circulation

Red Flags During Foot Blister Treatment

Stop the soak immediately if you notice:

• Redness, itching, or peeling beyond the blister area. This signals an allergic reaction or worsening infection. Wash your foot with room temperature water and mild soap. Dry thoroughly. If redness continues, see a doctor.
• Stinging or burning sensation. Your skin has cracks or is extremely sensitive. The salt is making it worse. Try a dermatologist-recommended gel moisturizer instead. Hydrogel or hydrocolloid bandages work better for sensitive skin.
• Skin peeling or weakening after repeated use. This happens with long-term epsom salt use in older adults. Stop the soaks.

» Check out easy home remedies for the burning feet syndrome

How Epsom Salt Compares to Other Foot Blister Treatments

• Epsom salt works for preventing blisters and reducing minor swelling. But it's not the best option for healing existing blisters.
• Hydrocolloid bandages beat epsom salt for actual healing. They keep the right moisture level while protecting against infection. No contaminated water risk.
• Antibiotic ointments and antiseptic washes are better for blisters showing signs of infection. They eliminate bacteria without creating a wet environment for more germs to grow.

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Avoid Using Epsom Salt for Foot Blisters Regularly

Regular epsom salt use strips your skin's natural oils. This makes skin brittle and more prone to cracks and infections.

Even plain water weakens your outer skin layer. Adding salt makes the drying effect worse. Swimmers deal with this problem, and they're not adding salt to the equation.

Epsom salt is mildly alkaline. Healthy skin is slightly acidic (pH 4.7-5.5). Regular salt baths can shift your skin's pH, weakening its natural barrier against bacteria and fungus [7].

The exfoliating effect increases skin sensitivity, especially on heels and toes. If you scrub while soaking, you're making this worse.

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Get Lasting Relief From Foot Blister Pain

Epsom salt can help with intact blisters by reducing swelling and pain. But it's not a miracle cure.

Don't use it on broken skin. Don't use it if you have diabetes or circulation problems. Don't use it daily.

For most people dealing with occasional blisters, hydrocolloid bandages are safer and more effective. They heal blisters faster without the infection risk that comes with soaking.

Save epsom salt for prevention, occasional soaks when your feet are healthy but tired. When you actually have blisters, better treatments exist.

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