Treating lacerations – Follow this guide from Elastoplast to treating minor lacerations and be prepared to take the appropriate actions after sustaining more serious wounds.

Lacerations are tears in the skin that can bleed heavily. Often, lacerations occur in skin areas close to the bone such as forehead, skullcap, shins, elbow joints or kneecaps. They can be caused by anything from falls against rough surfaces to blows from blunt instruments. Deep lacerations can penetrate deeper tissue. In many cases, they require medical attention.

Lacerations differ from abrasions in that they tend to involve more severe and deeper damage to the skin. Abrasions are most often superficial surface wounds and do not typically bleed a lot, whereas lacerations, particularly deep lacerations, are more likely to do so.

Lacerations are often severe and generally require medical attention because wide and uneven breaks in the skin lead to heavy bleeding and may require stitches.

Only small, minor lacerations can be treated at home. For these wounds, follow this easy 3 step routine to treat them quickly and easily.

For some injuries, especially wide or deep lacerations, stitches or other professional wound closure may be required. It is advisable to visit a healthcare professional if the wound bleeds for longer than seems reasonable, has particularly jagged edges, or if the skin laceration is located over a joint or somewhere such as the lips or an eyelid.

Generally, it is recommended to consult a doctor in the case of a head injury, especially for children, to ensure the best medical treatment and cosmetic results. Always take extra care during potentially dangerous activities and use protective gear such as helmets for those that pose a risk of head injury.