Wound closure strips, often known by the brand name Steri-Strips, are a common and effective non-invasive first-aid tool used for managing minor skin lacerations. These thin, porous, adhesive strips function by physically pulling and holding the edges of a cut together, which encourages the natural healing process. By approximating the skin edges, the strips help reduce the tension on the wound, minimizing scarring compared to traditional sutures. Their purpose is to provide temporary support to a small cut, allowing the underlying tissue to regenerate and close the gap safely.
Assessing the Wound: When to Use Strips vs. Seek Medical Help
Wound closure strips are designed for minor, low-tension cuts that are clean and shallow. A good candidate is a cut with straight, smooth edges that is less than half an inch in length and is not actively bleeding after a few minutes of firm pressure. They are most effective on parts of the body that do not experience frequent or excessive movement, as motion can cause the strips to lose adhesion prematurely.
Seek professional medical attention for any injury that falls outside these minor criteria. Immediate care is needed if a cut is deep enough to expose underlying fat, muscle, or bone, or if the edges are widely gaping and cannot be gently pressed together. Any wound that involves spurting or continuous bleeding after ten minutes of direct pressure requires emergency care, as does any puncture wound or a cut from a dirty or rusty object. Wounds located over joints or those that contain deeply embedded dirt or debris should be assessed by a healthcare provider to ensure proper cleaning and closure.
Precise Application Techniques
Successful application of wound closure strips relies on meticulous preparation to ensure the adhesive bonds firmly to the skin. First, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds to prevent introducing bacteria to the wound site. The cut must be gently cleaned with mild soap and water or a sterile saline solution to remove any contaminants. Take care to avoid harsh chemicals like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can damage tissue.
The area surrounding the wound must be completely dry before applying any strips, since moisture or oil prevents the adhesive from sticking properly. Once the skin is dry, begin the application by gently squeezing the wound edges together to bring the skin into alignment. The first strip should be placed across the middle of the cut, applying it perpendicular to the laceration line.
Apply the strip by securing one end to the skin on one side of the wound, then gently pulling the strip across to secure the approximated skin edges before attaching the other end. Continue applying additional strips across the entire length of the wound, spacing them approximately an eighth of an inch apart. Ensure that the skin edges meet without overlapping, and the strips should extend at least a half-inch onto the intact skin on both sides. For extra security, especially on wounds in areas of slight movement, a small strip can be placed parallel to the cut, covering the ends of the perpendicular strips to help anchor them down.
Post-Application Care and Removal
After the strips are applied, the wound site should be kept as dry as possible for the first 24 to 48 hours to maximize the adhesive bond and promote initial healing. Following this initial period, gently wash the area with mild soap and water, allowing water to run over the strips, but avoiding scrubbing or vigorous rubbing. Pat the area dry immediately afterward, as prolonged moisture can encourage the strips to lift and may create a breeding ground for bacteria.
The strips should remain in place for five to ten days, though this timeframe can vary depending on the wound’s location and the speed of healing. Strips on the face might be ready for removal sooner, while those on limbs or joints may need to stay on longer. The strips are designed to naturally curl and fall off on their own as the wound heals and skin oils accumulate.
If the strips do not detach naturally after the recommended period, they can be carefully removed to prevent skin irritation or accidental reopening of the wound. To aid removal, soften the adhesive by soaking the area in warm water. When peeling them off, pull the strip gently from the ends toward the center of the wound, running parallel to the cut line. This technique minimizes tension on the healing skin and reduces the risk of pulling the wound edges apart. Closely monitor the wound for any signs of infection, such as increasing redness, swelling, pus, or pain, and seek medical advice if these symptoms appear.