Touching your open wounds on your face with dirty hands can transfer dirt and bacteria to the wound, which can slow the healing process.

Washing the wound can also remove any bacteria that could lead to infection.

Try to find a bandage that is breathable, like gauze. This helps air still reach the wound, which will make it heal faster than if it gets no air. A bandage can help keep the wound moist so that it can heal.

You should also dry that area well after you are finished and keep the skin dry.

You may also develop a fever, chills, or fatigue if the infection worsens or spreads. Seek medical attention if this happens. An uncomplicated infection on your face can sometimes turn into facial cellulitis. This is an infection of deeper layers of skin and underlying tissue, and it can cause serious complications if left untreated. Watch for redness, pain and swelling, and yellow or green pus. [7] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source

See a doctor about your facial wound if you fall into one of these categories. She can advise you on the best plan of treatment.

If the wound won’t stop bleeding, you should also go to the doctor because this indicates it is a more serious wound. See a doctor, too, if the area around the wound becomes very swollen, red, and tender to the touch. You may need an oral antibiotic.

If you don’t want to go see a doctor, you can buy over-the-counter creams that will heal the cold sore.

If you are not sure how to change the way you wear your eyeglasses or oxygen tubes, talk to your doctor.

Lean meats are a great source of protein. Try chicken breast, fish, pork, eggs, or lean beef. Dairy products also contain a lot of protein. Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and lowfat cheese can make good snacks to increase your protein. Whole grains, like quinoa and bulgur, contain a lot of protein, as do black beans, lentils, soy beans, red beans, or kidney beans. Try green vegetables for protein, such as spinach or broccoli. Avoid junk food that increases inflammation and hinders healing.

Continue adding petroleum jelly to the wound to help keep the scab moist.

Don’t use antibacterial solutions, hydrogen peroxide, or iodine solutions.

Try not to smile, chew, or talk with exaggerated movements. Take it easy as your wound heals.

Never place ice directly on the wounds. This could cause your face to burn.

You may also put cool tea bags directly onto the wound.

Because it is so strong, it needs to be diluted with water. You may want to test the tea tree oil on a small patch of skin before placing it on your wound. Some people are sensitive to tea tree oil.

Lavender, eucalyptus, clove, rosemary, and chamomile essential oils have antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiseptic properties and can help disinfect and heal the wound. [22] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source [23] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source [24] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source