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Q: 

Is it better to cover up a papercut with a bandaid or leave it open to the air?

By Anonymous October 4, 2014 - 3:46pm
 
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I put a bandaid on but my mom told me to take it off.

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Expert HERWriter Guide Blogger

Hi Anonymous and thanks for your question.

While paper cuts are often small, they should still be treated in the same way that a larger cut would be treated in order minimize the risk of infection.

The area should first be cleaned, gently, with soap and water, and then dried gently with a clean cloth. An antibiotic cream should then be applied, one that contains bacitracin. The next step is to apply a bandage. You are correct, an open would should not be left exposed to the air. The cut should remain covered as it heals, and the antibiotic cream should be reapplied each time the bandage is changed. The bandage will not only protect the wound, it will also speed healing and reduce scarring.

Does that help? Thanks for looking out for your health!

Best,

Pat

October 5, 2014 - 11:22am
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