How to Dry Out Wounds

When it comes to the care of minor wounds, two types of healing methods exist. The first method, known as moist wound healing, implements moist protective covers to promote healing 2. Moist healing prevents scabbing, instead promoting the regeneration of new skin cells utilizing the liquid that exudes from the wound 2. Dry wound healing leaves the wound open to the circulation of fresh air, which helps heal the wound and dry it out through the scabbing process.

Apply pressure to the wound using a clean piece of gauze to stop the initial bleeding. As blood continues to saturate the gauze, add a fresh piece on top of the original piece.

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Continue to apply pressure for 20 to 30 minutes or until bleeding stops. Remove the gauze afterward and rinse the wound with cool water to remove dirt and debris.

Blot the wound dry with a clean, dry piece of gauze. Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment to the wounded area using a cotton ball.

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Cover the wound with a second clean, dry piece of gauze, secured with surgical adhesive tape. The dry gauze will collect any liquid that exudes from the wound, causing a scab to form.

Replace the dry gauze covering once a day. Keep the wound covered with the dry gauze until a scab begins to form, which should occur within one to two days.

Allow the wound to remain open to the air once the scab forms. All healing will occur under the scabbed-over skin.

Tips

Clean the skin around the wounded area with soapy water and a clean, soft cloth if dirt remains after rinsing. However, avoid getting the soap in the wound.

Warnings

Do not apply a wet dressing to the wound. A wet dressing will prevent the wound from drying out.

If the wound continues to bleed despite your best efforts to stop it, seek medical attention immediately.

A wound that appears red and inflamed after a few days also requires a physician’s check to ensure that it is not infected.