We’ve all had cuts, scrapes, or more serious injuries at some point. While wounds come in all shapes and sizes, looking after them properly helps them heal quickly and reduces the chance of infection. The good news? Taking care of wounds doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming!

This guide will walk you through simple steps to help your skin recover faster, so you can get back to doing what you love.

Types of Wounds

Understanding the different types of wounds can help you determine the best way to treat them. Here are some of the most common types:

Abrasions (Scrapes)

These occur when the skin rubs against a rough surface, like falling on concrete. They might sting but usually don’t bleed much.

Lacerations (Cuts)

These are deep cuts caused by sharp objects like knives or broken glass. If they are deep, they may require stitches.

Puncture Wounds

Caused by sharp objects like nails or needles, these may not bleed much but can go deep, increasing the risk of infection.

Avulsions

When a piece of skin is torn away, often due to accidents or heavy impact. These usually require urgent medical attention.

Incisions

These are clean, straight cuts often caused by surgery or sharp objects like a scalpel.

Steps for Proper Wound Care

Taking care of a wound properly can make all the difference in how quickly and smoothly it heals. Follow these essential steps:

1. Clean the Wound

Gently rinse the wound with cool, running water to remove dirt and debris. Avoid harsh antiseptics—mild soap and water work best! If needed, use sterilised tweezers to remove small particles.

Recommended product: Bactigras Wound Dressing 10 x 40cm – Contains chlorhexidine to help prevent infection while keeping the wound moist.

2. Stop the Bleeding

Apply gentle but firm pressure using a clean cloth or sterile gauze. If the bleeding persists, elevate the injured area to slow it down.

Recommended product: Primapore Adhesive Non-Woven Wound Dressing 35 x 10cm – Soft and comfortable, providing excellent coverage for wounds.

3. Cover It Up

Using a bandage or dressing protects the wound from bacteria and speeds up healing. Change it daily or when it becomes wet or dirty.

Recommended product: Allevyn Gentle Border Lite Oval Wound Dressing – Designed for sensitive skin and promotes a comfortable healing process.

4. Keep the Wound Moist

Keeping a wound moist helps it heal faster with less scarring. Apply an antibiotic ointment or wound gel.

Recommended product: Solosite Wound Gel Tube 20g – Maintains moisture while protecting against bacteria.

5. Monitor the Healing Process

It’s normal for a wound to be slightly red and tender, but increasing pain, swelling, warmth, pus, or spreading redness may indicate an infection. Seek medical help if needed.

Recommended product: ActivHeal Silicone Wound Contact Layer 10 x 10cm – Provides gentle wound protection while allowing it to breathe.

When to See a Doctor

Most wounds heal with proper care, but some require professional medical attention. Seek help if:

• The wound won’t stop bleeding after 5-10 minutes of pressure.
• It’s deeper than half an inch or has jagged edges.
• The wound was caused by something dirty or rusty (you may need a tetanus shot!).
• There are signs of infection, such as pus, warmth, or red streaks spreading from the wound.
• The wound was caused by an animal or human bite.

Shop Trusted Wound Care Essentials for Quick and Safe Healing

Taking care of a wound properly doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these simple steps, you’re helping your body heal faster while reducing the risk of infection. The key is to clean the wound, keep it covered, and monitor for any signs of trouble.

If you’re looking for the right wound care products, Platinum Health Supply has got you covered. Explore our range of high-quality wound dressings, bandages, and gels to make healing as easy and comfortable as possible.

Browse our collection today or reach out to our friendly team for expert advice!

Updated as of: 24 February 2025