Does a spray plaster protect as well as a regular plaster?
HLN, 20 August 2026
Spray plaster or regular plaster? In HLN, Dr Griet Voet explains when a spray is handy, which wounds you should not use it on and what she chooses herself.
Alongside regular plasters, spray plasters are now also on sale in shops. In HLN, Dr Griet Voet and Dr Delphine Braeckmans (ZAS) discuss the pros and cons. Dr Voet explains that once it has evaporated, the spray leaves a thin, transparent film that moves with the skin for several days. On knees, knuckles and fingers, that is often more practical than a plaster that comes loose.
Even so, Dr Voet says a spray is not better: there is no evidence that it makes a wound heal faster. For deep, bleeding, moist or infected wounds and for burns, a traditional plaster is the better choice. If you only want one product at home, she says regular plasters are the best option, as they are more versatile. A wound that becomes redder, warmer or more painful should be checked by a doctor.
Key advice
Clean the wound and let the skin dry before spraying.
Do not use a spray on deep, bleeding or moist wounds.
If you only want one product at home, choose regular plasters.
Have a wound that becomes red, warm or painful checked.
“It's not the case that the spray makes your wound heal faster.” — Dr Griet Voet
Want to know more? Read about Wound care at Clinique Dermatologie Gent.