No pain, no gain<\/a>? Not when it comes to blisters. These small pockets of clear fluid under the skin may seem harmless, but they\u2019re anything but \u2014 they can even be downright debilitating<\/a> if they\u2019re on a part of the body you need to navigate the day (like your feet!).<\/p>\n Unfortunately, they\u2019re often a part of life if you\u2019re active \u2014 at least until science finds a way to truly keep them from forming. It\u2019s a pipe dream, though, since blisters have a real purpose.<\/p>\n \u201cBlisters are nature\u2019s way of protecting you,\u201d says Johanna Youner, M.D., a New York City-based podiatrist. They form where there\u2019s friction from too much rubbing, including your hands and feet. \u201cFluid collects in between layers of the skin and acts like a cushion,\u201d she explains.<\/p>\n Here are a few of the most common reasons why blisters form on your feet.<\/p>\n One of the most common causes of friction blisters are ill-fitting shoes. When there\u2019s too much room for your foot to move in loose shoes, it can lead to excessive rubbing on pressure areas, which can form blisters.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ve seen some horrible, painful blisters from people who have bought shoes that were too large,\u201d Dr. Youner says. \u201cIf the foot is intensely rubbing with repetitive motion<\/a>, it will increase the chance of a blister.\u201d<\/p>\n Excessive moisture can also be a big factor<\/a>, as it can weaken the skin and make it more susceptible to tears. That\u2019s why you often feel the unmistakable sensation of a blister forming when you walk around with wet socks and shoes.<\/p>\n In some cases, blisters or skin irritations can form as a result of an allergic reaction<\/a> to certain chemicals or materials.<\/p>\n Follow these tips to keep blisters from forming on your feet.<\/p>\n Finding well-fitting shoes can make a world of difference in preventing blisters. \u201cDon\u2019t look at the number,\u201d says Dr. Youner. \u201cMany people wear shoes that are too small.\u201d<\/p>\n Your best bet is to get sized at a running specialty store that offers custom fitting. The experts measure your gait and other physiological aspects of your body and then recommend the best shoe for your unique situation.<\/p>\n Dr. Youner also recommends wearing breathable shoes (especially if you have sweaty feet) to mitigate moisture.<\/p>\nWhat Are Foot Blisters?<\/h2>\n
What Causes Foot Blisters?<\/h2>\n
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<\/p>\n1. Shoes that don\u2019t fit<\/h3>\n
2. Moisture<\/h3>\n
3. Allergies<\/h3>\n
How to Prevent Blisters<\/h2>\n
1. Invest in the right shoes<\/h3>\n
2. Get anti-blister socks<\/h3>\n
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