How to clean, treat, and protect large wounds

Published: March 2019

Last Reviewed: June 2025

Large wounds require careful attention to promote healing and prevent complications such as infection or scarring. Proper cleaning, treatment, and protection are essential steps in managing these injuries safely at home or in a healthcare setting. 

Whether the wound is caused by an accident, surgery, or another reason, knowing the right care techniques can significantly impact recovery time and comfort. 

In this article, we’ll walk you through the best practices for cleaning, dressing, and protecting large wounds with Elastoplast products to support effective healing.

Larger wounds need extra care and attention because they take longer to heal and are more likely to develop complications. Unlike small cuts and grazes, a large wound affects more layers of skin and even sometimes deeper tissues, which makes it harder for the body to repair. 

One of the biggest risks with a large wound is infection. The larger the wound, the easier it is for bacteria to enter and cause problems like redness, swelling, or pus. Keeping the wound clean and properly covered is important to prevent this. 

Larger wounds can vary depending on how they’re caused and how deep or wide they are. Here are the main types of larger wounds:

• Lacerations (deep cuts)
• Surgical wounds
• Abrasions (grazes or scrapes)
• Avulsions
• Burns
• Pressure ulcers 
• Chronic wounds (diabetic foot ulcers, arterial ulcers or venous leg ulcers)

Before applying a dressing or seeing a doctor, it’s important to give first aid to your wound. Proper first aid helps stop bleeding, reduce the risk of infection, and prepare the wound for safe healing. Learn more about large wound treatment at home below.

If you had an injury and the wound is big, make sure to immediately follow the steps below because wounds can get infected if not treated properly.

Apply firm, steady pressure to the wound using a clean cloth or sterile bandage. Maintain pressure for at least five minutes without lifting to check. If bleeding continues, add another layer of fabric or bandage, then apply pressure for an additional 10 minutes.

If bleeding is severe or doesn’t stop, seek medical attention immediately.

Before treating the wound, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, then dry them completely. If available, wear disposable gloves to minimise the risk of introducing bacteria. Gently rinse the wound under cool running tap water for a few minutes to remove any visible dirt and debris. Avoid using soap directly on the wound, as it can cause irritation.

While water helps rinse away dirt, it may not fully remove bacteria. For a more effective clean, use Elastoplast Wound Spray – a pain-free, antiseptic solution specially designed to remove bacteria and prevent infection.

Spray the entire wound area from a distance of approximately 10 cm to flush out contaminants. Afterwards, gently pat the wound dry with a clean, lint-free cloth or sterile gauze. Avoid using cotton wool or swabs, as they can leave fibres behind and interfere with healing.

Find out more about effective wound cleansing method.

To support fast and safe wound healing, apply a thin layer of Elastoplast Wound Healing Ointment. This gentle, effective ointment helps speed up the natural healing process, protects against infection, and minimises the risk of scarring.

Clinically proven to promote up to 2× faster healing, the ointment creates a moist wound environment, which is essential for optimal skin recovery. It’s suitable for all stages of the healing process and can be used on superficial open wounds, cuts, grazes, and damaged skin.

Reapply the ointment once or twice a day, or as needed, to keep the wound moisturised and protected. 

After applying the ointment, cover the wound with a suitable large plaster or sterile dressing to keep it clean, prevent infection, and protect it from further injury. Change the dressing daily, or sooner if it becomes wet or dirty. 

Elastoplast offers a wide range of large plasters and dressings tailored to your needs:

• Elastoplast Second Skin Hydrocolloid Plasters XL is specially designed for large wounds, offering advanced healing through its unique hydrocolloid gel technology. It creates a moist environment that speeds up recovery, reduces scarring, and stays securely in place for up to 72 hours. Ultra-thin, flexible and waterproof, it acts like a second skin, offering lasting protection and comfort during daily activities. 
• Elastoplast Sterile Waterproof XL MED+ is ideal for use while washing, showering, or swimming, thanks to its strong adhesion and waterproof film that keeps the wound dry and protected.
• Elastoplast Sterile Waterproof XXL Dressings provide the same waterproof protection on an even larger surface area, ideal for more extensive wounds.
• Elastoplast Sensitive Dressing XL and XXL are specifically designed for sensitive skin, offering secure but gentle adhesion. The soft, breathable material helps prevent irritation while shielding the wound from bacteria and dirt.

These dressings support safe, hygienic healing and offer comfort without compromising protection.

Sealing all around the wound to prevent contamination, the secure adhesion ensures that the plaster stays in place while remaining painless to remove. Learn more about removing plasters without pain.

Seek medical attention immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• The wound is deep, wide, or the edges won’t close on their own, as it may require stitches or surgical treatment.
• Bleeding doesn’t stop after 10–15 minutes of applying direct pressure.
• There is dirt, glass, or debris in the wound that you cannot remove safely.
• The wound was caused by an animal or human bite, a dirty object, or rusted metal, as you may need a tetanus booster or antibiotics.
• You notice signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or a foul smell.
• You have a fever or feel unwell after sustaining the wound.
• The wound is very painful, or the pain becomes worse over time instead of improving.
• You have a medical condition, such as diabetes or poor circulation, which can slow healing and increase the risk of complications.

Getting professional medical care ensures your wound is thoroughly cleaned, properly closed (if necessary), and closely monitored. Prompt treatment supports faster and safer healing, helping to reduce the risk of infection, scarring, and long-term issues.

Please note that, although these were compiled with great care, the tips and advice given on this website by no means substitute medical advice and treatment. If you have or suspect a health problem, consult a doctor and follow medical advice regardless of what you have learned on this website.

Always read carefully and follow the instructions for use or the product leaflets. For further information about our products, please contact us via email at ConsumerRelationsUK@Beiersdorf.com.