Caring for cuts

Cuts can be caused by a knife or even a sheet of paper: the skin is penetrated by a sharp object; usually on the hand or a finger. Follow the treatment steps below, which are based on NHS recommendations:

Graphical representation of hand washing as a wound treatment step in the Leukoplast wound care advisor.

1. Wash your hands:

Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
Graphical representation of a running tap to illustrate the rinsing of the wound as a wound treatment step in the Leukoplast wound care advisor.

2. Clean the wound:

“Clean the wound under drinking-quality running tap water.
Note: Avoid using antiseptic as it may damage the skin and slow healing.” 1
Graphic representation of a hand absorbing fluid with a cloth to illustrate drying of the wound as a wound treatment step.

3. Dry the skin:

Pat the area dry with a clean towel.
Graphic representation of a hand pressing a compress on a wound to illustrate the stopping of the bleeding as a treatment step.

4. Stop the bleeding:

“If the wound is bleeding, apply gentle pressure to the area with a clean gauze bandage or cloth and elevate the wound until the bleeding stops.” 1
Graphic representation of a hand applying a wound dressing to another wrist to symbolize covering the wound as a treatment step.

5. Dress the wound:

Apply a sterile adhesive dressing, such as one of the specialized wound dressings below.

The dressing can be changed daily if necessary or whenever it becomes wet or dirty. Keep the wound dry by using waterproof dressings, which will allow you to take showers.

When to seek medical advice

Most cuts are minor and can be dealt with at home. A visit to the doctor is necessary, however, if the cut

  • is in the face, especially near the eyes.
  • does not stop bleeding. In this case, apply a pressure bandage using e.g. a towel or a handkerchief before seeing the doctor.
  • shows signs of infection

When in doubt, see a medical expert

Many common wounds can be dealt with at home. But when should a doctor be consulted? Scroll down for more information!

Pictogram showing a medical expert.