Sometimes the same strappy sandals that look so good in the morning feel entirely ill-advised as you limp home in the evening. Here are a few natural ways to deflate the dreaded blister:

Ice: If the spot is red but the blister hasn't formed yet, ice will constrict the blood vessels and calm the swelling.

Witch hazel: Soak a gauze pad in witch hazel and lay over the blister, attaching with a bandage. Once the blister breaks, wash with water and echinacea powder (good for healing skin wounds), and bandage again.

Aloe vera: Rub in aloe vera gel several times a day to soothe and heal blisters. Extract from the aloe vera plant will work even faster.

Corn starch: To prevent blisters, powder your feet with corn starch before putting on your shoes. You can also apply a wet Lipton tea bag on any areas prone to blistering – the acid helps toughen the skin.

Or just wear sneakers! (We'll be following our own advice, thank you very much!)