Outdoor adventures are fantastic, but they come with their fair share of bumps, scrapes, and minor injuries. To ensure you’re prepared, having a well-equipped first aid kit is essential. Here’s a simple yet effective DIY first aid cream that covers all the bases, so you don’t have to pack every single first aid item under the sun.
Why This DIY Cream?
This all-in-one cream is designed to handle various minor injuries and skin irritations that can occur while exploring the great outdoors. Whether it’s a cut, scrape, burn, or rash, this cream can help soothe and protect the skin. Let’s dive into how to make this essential addition to your first aid kit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chlorhexidine (4%):
- Amount: 5 milliliters
- Benefits: Chlorhexidine is a powerful antiseptic that kills bacteria and prevents infection.
- Lidocaine (4%):
- Amount: 1 tablespoon
- Benefits: Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that numbs the skin, providing quick pain relief.
- Calmoseptine:
- Amount: 1 tablespoon
- Benefits: Calmoseptine contains 20% zinc oxide, which creates a protective barrier on the skin. It also includes calamine, which soothes itching and irritation.
How to Make the Cream
Ingredients:
- 1/3 part Zinc Oxide
- 1/3 part 4% Lidocaine
- 1/3 part Double Antibiotic Ointment
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients
- In a clean container, mix equal amounts of zinc oxide, 4% lidocaine, and double antibiotic ointment
How to Use the First Aid Cream
- Clean the Affected Area:
- Before applying the cream, clean the wound or irritated skin with water and mild soap.
- Apply the Cream:
- Apply a small amount of the cream to the affected area. Gently rub it in to ensure even coverage.
- Cover if Necessary:
- For cuts and scrapes, you might want to cover the area with a bandage after applying the cream to protect it further.
Additional First Aid Essentials
While this DIY cream is a fantastic all-in-one solution, you should also pack a few other essentials to complete your first aid kit:
- Benadryl: For allergic reactions or severe itching.
- Bandages: Various sizes to cover and protect wounds.
- Tweezers: For removing splinters or ticks.
- Gauze and Tape: For larger wounds that need more coverage.
With this DIY first aid cream, you’ll be well-prepared for any minor injuries that come your way while enjoying outdoor activities. This cream covers multiple needs, from disinfecting cuts to soothing rashes, making it a perfect addition to your first aid kit.
So next time you or your kids head out for an adventure, whip up a batch of this all-purpose cream and pack it alongside your other essentials. Enjoy your time outdoors knowing you’re ready to handle whatever nature throws your way!