First Aid

Huge disclaimer - I am not a medical professional! I am simply a hobbyist researcher and former self-harmer, nothing more. Sources will be linked above each section, so please check those if you’re still unsure.

Cuts

Sources

• NHS - Cuts and Grazes
• In the rare case that this may be relevant, here is the NHS guide for tetanus symptoms.

Aftercare depends largely on the depth of a cut -

• Epidermis - The first and thinnest layer of the skin. Usually stings somewhat, and does not ‘split’ the spin apart. Akin to a paper cut.
• Dermis - The second layer of the skin. Appears white-ish inside (when blood is fully washed away) and creates a small ‘split/cavern’ in the skin. Usually takes a second to appear red and/or start bleeding. Often leaves a soft burning sensation.
• Fat - Skin has been fully penetrated. Yellow-ish liquid appearance, possibly with small globules if the cut is wide enough to show them.
• Muscle - Not sure yet, thankfully.

Epidermis cuts

Use some antiseptic, ideally on cloth or gauze, to gently clean the area of bacteria. Then hold a clean cloth (e.g. towel, old shirt) over the area for around 5 minutes, maintaining light pressure on the wound. If the bleeding continues after 5 minutes, keep holding the cloth over the cuts until it ceases. Apply bandaids over the wounds and change daily. It may help to gently clean the area with antibacterial soap and water until healed.

Healing typically takes 3-5 days and leaves minimal scarring. It may be safe to use tissue to cover these cuts, as it is very unlikely that it can get caught in the wound and cause infection. If you have the choice, however, opt for cloth; do not take risks if you don't have to.

Dermis cuts

Use some antiseptic, ideally on cloth or gauze, to gently clean the area of bacteria, taking care not to get any inside the wound. Then hold a clean cloth (e.g. towel, old shirt) over the area for around 10-15 minutes, maintaining light pressure on the wound. If the bleeding continues after this time, keep holding the cloth over the cuts until it ceases. If the bleeding continues after 30 minutes, please consider seeking medical attention.

If the bleeding stops and it is safe to continue, apply bandaids over the wounds and change daily. You may wish to hold the wound closed while you apply the bandaid, if possible, in order to reduce scarring and streamline the healing process. It may help to clean the area with antibacterial soap and water daily, but take care to not let soap get stuck in the wound.

Healing typically takes around a week and can leave rather visible scars, depending on how well aftercare is performed. Avoid using tissue to cover these cuts, as it can easily get trapped and cause infection.

Fat cuts

You will need to seek medical attention for a cut of this depth, and you will most likely receive either stitches or medical glue for the wound.

In the meantime, use a clean cloth to cover the wound and prevent excessive bleeding. Press with light-moderate pressure.

Any cuts that go beyond the fat layer, have bright red spurting blood (indication of a vein or artery being hit), or don't stop bleeding after 20-30 minutes will need professional medical attention.