In most cases you should not do anything to treat a toenail blister, as your body will work to heal the wound on its own. If you are competing in a walking or running event, you may be able to drain the blister using a sterilized needle if it is close enough to the surface. Blisters that are found deep beneath the toenail may need to be treated by a professional.

Blisters form when consistent friction irritates an area of skin. They are produced by the body in an attempt to protect and cushion the area. A blister may appear as a large bulge on the surface of the skin, and it may be filled with a clear or light-colored fluid. This fluid will generally be watery in nature. Thick, yellow, or malodorous fluid may be indicative of a more severe infection and should be evaluated by a doctor.

If you develop a toenail blister, your body will heal the area on its own without treatment in most cases. Avoid adding undue friction to the area and place tape or a bandage over the affected toe to keep it protected and in place. You may need to avoid exercises like walking, running, or jogging for a day or so until the blister has time to heal. Once this occurs, continue with your normal activities, but wear protective shoes and keep a bandage on the area to prevent future blisters until your toe is no longer red or sore.

On occasion, it may be necessary to drain a toenail blister, such as if you are running or walking competitively or have a job which requires frequent walking or standing. To drain a blister, clean a needle thoroughly with rubbing alcohol and gently insert it into the blister to open it up. A clear liquid will run out, and you should keep gauze or cotton balls handy to absorb it. Then, apply an antibiotic ointment to the blister and cover it with a bandage.

Do not remove the nail in order to drain a toenail blister. If it is located too far beneath the nail for you to reach it yourself, you will need to see a doctor. He or she can create a small hole and drain the toenail blister through the opening. Removing your entire toenail is extremely painful and may result in a serious infection if you do it yourself.