Blister facts for kids

Blisters are small pockets of fluid that form on the top layer of your skin. They can be caused by things like rubbing (friction), getting too hot (burning), or getting too cold (freezing). Most blisters are filled with a clear liquid called serum or plasma, which is sometimes called "blister water." However, some blisters can be filled with blood; these are known as blood blisters.

What are Blisters?

A blister is like a tiny bubble on your skin, filled with liquid. It forms when the outer layer of your skin separates from the layers underneath. This separation creates a space that fills up with fluid. This fluid is usually clear and helps to protect the skin underneath, allowing it to heal.

How Blisters Form

Blisters can form for a few main reasons:

• Friction: This is the most common cause. If something rubs against your skin over and over again, like a tight shoe or a tool you're using, it can cause a blister. The rubbing makes the top layer of skin lift away.
• Burns: Getting too close to something hot, like a stove or hot water, can cause a burn. If the burn is bad enough (a second-degree burn), it can damage the skin and lead to blisters. These blisters are a sign that the skin has been hurt.
• Freezing: Just like heat, extreme cold can also damage your skin. If your skin gets too cold, it can freeze, leading to a condition called frostbite. Blisters can form as a result of frostbite, showing that the skin has been injured by the cold.

Types of Blisters

Most blisters contain a clear, watery fluid. This fluid is called serum or plasma, which are parts of your blood that help with healing. They act like a natural cushion, protecting the damaged skin underneath.

Sometimes, you might see a blood blister. These blisters look dark red or purple because they contain blood. Blood blisters form when the tiny blood vessels under your skin are also damaged along with the skin layers. This usually happens with a stronger pinch or crush, rather than just rubbing.

Images for kids

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  Friction: various sized blisters on the sole of a foot

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  Burning: two days after a second-degree burn

See also

In Spanish: Ampolla (piel) para niños