Treatment of Grazes
Treatment of grazes focuses on cleaning the wound, protecting it during healing, and preventing infection. Most grazes can be treated at home with basic first aid supplies, but some may need professional care, especially if they are large, contaminated, or slow to heal.
Immediate First Aid
Wash hands before touching the wound
Stop any bleeding with gentle pressure using sterile gauze or a clean cloth
Clean the wound under cool, running water; use mild soap around (not in) the wound
Remove debris carefully with tweezers sterilised with alcohol
Apply antiseptic such as iodine or chlorhexidine to reduce infection risk
Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol directly in the wound, as these may delay healing.
Dress the Wound
Cover with a non-stick, sterile dressing or hydrocolloid plaster
Change the dressing daily or when wet or dirty
Apply antibiotic ointment (if advised) to prevent infection and keep the wound moist
Keeping the wound moist—not dry—encourages faster healing with reduced scarring.
Pain and Inflammation
Over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen may help
Elevate the area if there is swelling, especially on limbs
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if:
The graze is large, deep, or heavily contaminated
Signs of infection develop (pus, redness, warmth)
The wound doesn’t improve within a few days
There’s concern about tetanus (dirty wound, rusty surface, no recent booster)
Avoiding Re-injury
Keep the area protected during sports or work
Use knee or elbow pads for children involved in high-impact play
Treatment of Grazes
In summary, treatment of grazes involves careful cleaning, protection, and infection prevention. Most heal quickly with home care, but attention to cleanliness and dressing changes is vital to avoid complications.
