The 4 stages of wound healing

A wound is a rupture or a lesion of the surface of the skin. Wounds are among the most common injuries in daily life, whether they are caused by a fall, a cut, or a burn. As soon as the incident occurs, bleeding may happen and the natural process of hemostasis and wound healing is triggered to recreate the natural barrier of the skin and to protect us from infections.

The evolution of wound healing is a complex and organized biological process that takes place in 4 major successive phases.

• Phase 1 – HEMOSTASIS: the body stops the bleeding by activating red blood cells and platelets to form a blood clot. This phase lasts from a few minutes to a few hours.

• Phase 2 – INFLAMMATION: the immune system activates white blood cells to protect the wound against infection. A slight swelling, redness, and a sensation of heat at the wound site characterize this phase. It allows the elimination of damaged or dead tissues as well as bacteria that could hinder healing, it activates repair cells and prepares the wound bed for the formation of new tissues. This phase can last 2 to 4 days.

• Phase 3 – PROLIFERATION: the body produces new healthy tissues to cover the wound. During this process, tissue repair cells participate in the production of collagen, which is essential for the skin and the proper functioning of connective tissues. It is in this phase that progress becomes visible: the edges of the wound come closer together, reducing its size until its complete closure. This phase can last 10 to 15 days.

• Phase 4 – REMODELING (also called wound maturation): the new tissues gradually strengthen. At the end of this stage, the healed area regains better resistance, even if it may remain slightly different from the original skin. This phase can last 6 to 18 months.

Causes of delayed wound healing

Several factors can slow down the healing of a wound:

• Wound infection: disrupts the tissue repair process.
• Chronic diseases: such as diabetes (high blood sugar slows down the body’s ability to repair damaged tissues).
• Poor blood circulation: limits the supply of oxygen and nutrients necessary for tissue repair.
• Malnutrition, in particular a deficiency in:
  o Proteins: playing an important role in the production and repair of cells and tissues. Main food sources: meats, fish, eggs, tofu, legumes, dairy products.
  o Carbohydrates: essential due to their energy supply, necessary to fight inflammation. They are present in cereal products, nuts, seeds, legumes.
  o Lipids: contribute to the formation of skin cells and improve its quality; particularly lipids rich in vitamin E (vegetable oils, dried fruits and oilseeds), and omega-3 (vegetable oils, fish).
  o Vitamin A: helps control the inflammatory response. Main food sources: green cabbage, spinach, carrots, sweet potatoes.
  o Vitamin C: contributes to collagen formation. Food sources: kiwis, mangoes, strawberries, watercress, kale, coriander.
• Smoking: reduces tissue oxygenation and slows down cellular regeneration.
• Certain medications, such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressive treatments, can reduce the quality and effectiveness of healing.
• Advanced age: aging slows down cellular regeneration.

These factors can act individually or simultaneously and compromise wound healing.

Evolution of good wound care practices

Among the causes of delayed healing, inappropriate management can also be mentioned: a poorly cleaned wound, poorly protected, poorly monitored, or unsuitable dressing can promote infection, prolong inflammation, and slow down tissue repair.

The science of healing has undergone a fascinating evolution over the ages. In the time of Pharaonic Egypt, the application of bandages and the recognition of the classic signs of infection and inflammation were perfectly mastered. Pressure ulcers (a lesion of the skin and underlying tissues that develops when prolonged pressure prevents proper blood circulation in an area of the body) have been found on Egyptian mummies dating back 5,000 years. Caregivers of ancient Egypt notably used honey to treat wounds because of its antibacterial properties.

A surgical papyrus dating from 1650 BC described at least 48 types of injuries. Another dating from 1550 BC mentioned the use of mixtures containing honey (antibacterial effect), linen (absorption of exudates), and fat (protective effect) to treat wounds.

Let us make a leap to the 20th century: wound care practices underwent a new revolution — moving from an approach centered on drying out the wound to an approach that favors maintaining a moist environment.

Indeed, until the middle of the 20th century, care mainly aimed to dry out the wound, quickly form a scab, and sometimes use aggressive antiseptics. Products such as alcohol or hydrogen peroxide were commonly applied. While they helped to clean, they could also damage cells in the process of repair. The scab, although it protects the wound, slows down the migration of the cells necessary for skin closure.

In 1962, Dr. G. Winter demonstrated, in a major publication, that healing was faster when the wound was kept moist, that is to say in an environment favorable to the migration of key cells involved in tissue repair. This work made it possible to initiate the concept of moist wound healing and the development of modern dressings, known as “active” dressings.

Benefits of algae in wound healing

Maintaining a moist environment is precisely what alginate-based dressings (a biopolymer derived from algae) allow. Thanks to their high absorption capacity, they regulate excess exudate while preserving the hydration necessary for the migration of healing cells.

Alginate dressings form a protective gel upon contact with the wound, limiting trauma during dressing changes and thus promoting a physiological healing process. There are many alginates: calcium alginates, sodium alginates, alginates including other substances such as carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), silver ions or zinc, etc.

When a calcium alginate (Stop Hémo® range) comes into contact with body fluids (blood or exudate), it does not only absorb fluids and maintains a moist environment, but it also releases calcium ions directly into the wound. These calcium ions activate key cells of the healing process (macrophages, fibroblasts, keratinocytes, etc.) and support the natural wound healing process.

This technology derived from marine resources illustrates the integration of natural biomaterials into modern wound care strategies.

Algae at the heart of modern wound healing solutions

Today, algae are increasingly playing an important role in the development of modern wound treatment solutions due to their interesting biological properties. Rich in bioactive compounds, particularly natural polysaccharides, phenols, and fatty acids, algae have properties that promote tissue remodeling, reduce scarring, and accelerate wound healing.

In addition to their therapeutic benefits, algae represent a sustainable alternative to synthetic materials, aligning with an approach to biomedical innovation that is environmentally friendly. Their use thus illustrates the evolution of care toward technologies that combine clinical effectiveness, biocompatibility, and ecological responsibility.

Sources:

1. Almadani YH, Vorstenbosch J, Davison PG, Murphy AM. Wound Healing: A Comprehensive Review. Semin Plast Surg. 2021 Aug;35(3):141-144. doi: 10.1055/s-0041-1731791. Epub 2021 Jul 15. PMID: 34526860; PMCID: PMC8432991.
2. The 4 Stages of Wound Healing and Your Role in the Process, https://www.essentiahealth.org/about/essentia-health-newsroom/general-surgery-the-4-stages-of-wound-healing-and-your-role-in-the-process#:~:text=However%2C%20surgery%20is%20only%20one,inflammation%2C%20proliferation%2C%20and%20remodeling. consulté le 04/03/2026.
3. 10 Tips for Wound Healing, https://reussistonifsi.fr/10-conseils-cicatrisation-plaies/, consulté le 04/03/2026.
4. Vitamins and mineals, https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/vitamins/, consulté le 04/03/2026.
5. Wound healing and nutrition, https://www.hug.ch/dermatologie-venereologie/cicatrisation-alimentation#:~:text=Comme%20les%20glucides%2C%20ils%20sont,peau%20et%20am%C3%A9liorent%20sa%20qualit%C3%A9. Consulté le 04/03/2026.
6. Wang X, Yu Z, Zhou S, Shen S, Chen W. The Effect of a Compound Protein on Wound Healing and Nutritional Status. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2022 Mar 24;2022:4231516. doi: 10.1155/2022/4231516. PMID: 35368770; PMCID: PMC8970868.
7. Bhattacharya S. Wound healing through the ages. Indian J Plast Surg. 2012 May;45(2):177-9. doi: 10.4103/0970-0358.101255. PMID: 23162212; PMCID: PMC3495363.
8. WINTER GD. Formation of the scab and the rate of epithelization of superficial wounds in the skin of the young domestic pig. Nature. 1962 Jan 20;193:293-4. doi: 10.1038/193293a0. PMID: 14007593.

NET26SHE07A – March 2026

Το άρθρο Algae and health: benefits of algae in wound healing εμφανίστηκε πρώτα στο Stop Hemo.

WHAT IS HEMOSTASIS?

Hemostasis is the body’s biological process for stopping bleeding after an injury to a blood
vessel. It is the first step in wound healing and consists of three main mechanisms:
👉🏻Vasoconstriction — blood vessels constrict to reduce blood flow.
👉🏻Platelet plug formation — platelets stick together to form an initial seal.
👉🏻Coagulation — a cascade of chemical reactions turns blood into a gel (fibrin clot) to
firmly stop bleeding.
Hemostasis is a highly efficient natural process. However, in many real-world situations (such
as first aid emergencies or specific medical conditions), additional help is required to
effectively stop the bleeding. Such help sometimes comes …. from the oceans!

SEAWEED TO THE RESCUE: STOPPING BLEEDS NATURALLY

Seaweed has a long history of use in traditional wound care, particularly among coastal
communities who relied on readily available marine resources. Fishermen and sailors used
to apply fresh or dried seaweed directly to cuts and wounds to help absorb blood,
protect the injury, and promote healing.

Brown seaweed was especially valued because of their soft texture when wet and their ability
to hold moisture, which helped cover wounds and limit continued bleeding.

Over time, scientists discovered that compounds within these seaweeds—especially alginates—were responsible
for many of the beneficial effects observed in traditional use, allowing ancient knowledge to
be transformed into modern, evidence-based wound care materials.

FROM TRADITIONAL USE TO SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE AND INDUSTRIAL
APPLICATIONS

Alginate (also called alginic acid) was first discovered in the nineteenth century by the British
chemist E. C. C. Stanford, who extracted this natural substance from a brown seaweed
variety called Laminaria. Early publications and studies focused on its physical and chemical
properties, such as its ability to absorb fluids, form viscous solutions, and create gels.

While alginate was initially exploited in industries such as food, textiles, and paper, its
biocompatibility and gel-forming properties led the pharmaceutical industry to adopt it in the
mid-20ᵗʰ century as a versatile excipient used to support and control drug delivery.
Seaweeds — especially brown seaweeds — are large marine algae
rich in natural polysaccharides such as alginate. These polymers have
unique physical and chemical properties that make them useful in
wound care.

Alginate is extracted from the cell walls of brown seaweed such as
Laminaria species. It contains molecular blocks of mannuronic and
guluronic acid that can form gels when in contact with fluids.

Around the same time, specific interest in the hemostatic potential of alginate emerged
through the work of British surgeon George Blaine, who, during the 1940s, investigated
calcium alginate use on wounds. Blaine observed that when applied to bleeding wounds,
calcium alginate not only absorbed blood but also promoted clot formation by releasing
calcium ions—an essential factor in the coagulation process.

In France, surgeon Jean Gosset was among the first clinicians to draw attention to the
hemostatic potential of alginate materials. At a 1949 session of the Académie de Chirurgie
(Academy of Surgery) in Paris, Gosset shared clinical observations using calcium alginate on
various wounds and concluded that it offers genuine potential. He encouraged its preparation
on a commercial scale and supported the launch of Coalgan® in 1949

www.coalgan-gamme.com

The works of Blaine and Gosset marked the first serious clinical explorations of alginate as a
medical material, transforming a natural seaweed extract into a scientifically recognized
hemostatic agent. This paved the way for the development of calcium alginate medical
devices used in advanced wound care for hemostasis and tissue repair (www.brothier.com).

HOW STOP HEMO® STOPS BLEEDING: MECHANISM OF ACTION

Inspired by the natural properties of algae, Stop Hémo® changes upon contact with blood.
This physical and chemical transformation allows it to act both mechanically and biologically,
promoting effective coagulation. Its calcium alginate:
1- Absorbs blood
2- Hydrates and forms a protective gel, which acts like a temporary barrier, trapping
blood cells and clotting factors at the wound site
3- Releases calcium ions at bleeding site (calcium ions are factor IV of the coagulation
cascade, essential for the clotting process)
4- Does not stick to the newly formed clot: the gelified structure ensures an atraumatic
removal.
This nature-inspired action makes it a suitable first-aid solution for everyday situations.
Ready to use and designed for life’s unexpected moments, it offers calm and confidence
Coalgan®, a hemostatic swab indicated for the treatment of minor
nosebleeds, is made of calcium alginate fibers and thus delivers the
hemostatic properties of algae. It is nowadays internationally available
under the brand names Stop Hémo®, BleedCease®, NasalCease® and
Chicare® (www.brothier.com)

KEY POINTS TO BEAR IN MIND

The story of seaweed in medicine is one of transformation: from traditional use along coastlines
to sophisticated biomedical treatments in modern households and hospitals.
Seaweed’s physical and chemical properties are particularly useful in hemostasis: it absorbs
blood, hydrates, forms a protective gel and releases its calcium ions at the bleeding site to
support the natural process of coagulation. Those properties, once observed by sailors, have
since been harnessed and refined through industrial processing—transforming alginate into
hemostatic and healing medical devices.

Thus, the ocean gave us a powerful resource, and we used it wisely – advancing patient care
while reinforcing our responsibility to protect marine ecosystems.

Join the movement by exploring the work of our partner, 1Ocean, and be part of a more sustainable future for
healthcare, the ocean and the climate: https://www.mission-1ocean.com/projet/forets-sous-
marines-un-enjeu-pour-lhumanite/ Restoring our underwater forests is more than protecting biodiversity,
it’s a bold step toward safeguarding our climate for the future.
— Alexis Rosenfeld, Project Leader at 1 OCEAN

when bleeding occurs – whether from a sudden nosebleed, delicate gum bleeding, or a minor
skin injury – helping you care for yourself and your loved ones when it matters most.

SUSTAINABILITY AND THE FUTURE OF SEAWEED IN MEDICINE

As sustainability becomes a central concern in healthcare, seaweed stands out as a natural
resource uniquely suited to meet both medical and environmental challenges. Unlike
terrestrial crops, seaweed doesn’t require fertilizer, pesticides, freshwater, or land, and it
grows rapidly.
This ease of cultivation and exceptional sustainability are matched by a rich biochemical
diversity, positioning seaweed as both an environmentally responsible resource and a
promising source of therapeutic compounds.
Seaweeds are rich in polysaccharides, polyphenols, proteins, and pigments, which possess
various therapeutic properties. These compounds have shown potential as anti-inflammatory,
antimicrobial, antiviral, antitumor, and antioxidant agents, among others.
Stay tuned for our publication regarding seaweed benefits in healing by reducing
inflammation, fighting bacteria, and promoting tissue growth!

Sources:
1. Hemostasis, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21999-hemostasis, accessed
on 06/01/2026.
2. Pérez-Lloréns, J.L., Critchley, A.T., Cornish, M.L. et al. Saved by seaweeds (II):
Traditional knowledge, home remedies, medicine, surgery, and pharmacopoeia. J Appl
Phycol 35, 2049–2068 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10811-023-02965-6.
3. Hylenne Bojorges,  Amparo López-Rubio ,  Antonio Martínez-Abad ,  María José Fabra ,
Overview of alginate extraction processes: Impact on alginate molecular structure and

techno-functional properties, Trends in Food Science & Technology, Volume
140, October 2023. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tifs.2023.104142
4. Blaine G. Experimental Observations on Absorbable Alginate Products in Surgery : Gel,
Film, Gauze and Foam. Ann Surg. 1947 Jan;125(1):102-14. doi: 10.1097/00000658-
194701000-00011. PMID: 17858907; PMCID: PMC1803201.
5. Histoire de l’hémostase locale, Académie de Chirurgie Magazine, 3 ème trimestre 2012.
6. Pereira L, Cotas J. Seaweed: a sustainable solution for greening drug manufacturing in
the pursuit of sustainable healthcare. Explor Drug Sci.
2024;2:50–84. https://doi.org/10.37349/eds.2024.00036
NET26SHE03A – janv 2026

Το άρθρο WHY LOOK TO THE OCEANS…. FOR HEMOSTASIS? εμφανίστηκε πρώτα στο Stop Hemo.

The “Do It Yourself” concept first appeared in magazines aimed at DIY enthusiasts, radio,
carpentry, and more, at the beginning of the 20th century. The acronym “DIY” itself started circulating in the 1950s in the American press. Two major developments, commercial and technological, have made DIY more visible and accessible worldwide:

 1950s–1960s: The rise of DIY stores such as Home Depot, Leroy Merlin, Bauhaus,
Castorama, Hornbach, Brico, and others.
 2000s onward: The explosion of DIY content online (tutorials on YouTube, Pinterest,
Instagram, TikTok…) and in mainstream media (shows about home staging, minimalism, zero waste, homemade projects).

DIY has become a true economic sector! The global market was valued at USD 775.6 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 805.8 billion in 2025, with projections exceeding USD 1,094 billion by 2033. North America remains the most dynamic market, while Asia-Pacific is seeing the fastest growth. In Europe, a survey reveals that half of consumers engage in DIY more frequently because
they enjoy the fun aspect, and a quarter find it more cost-effective than other solutions. Over 33% of Europeans even plan to increase their DIY activities. This enthusiasm is especially strong in France, Poland, Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, and the UK.

Most Common DIY Projects:

DIY Handyman Work and Light Renovation

Furniture assembly, Wall decoration, Painting, Tiling, Flooring, Minor repairs (handles, hinges, doors), Basic electrical work (changing lights, switches)

Interior Decoration

Making decorative items (vases, garlands, candles) Customizing furniture (painting, varnishing)
Creating photo frames and artwork Plant-related projects (decorating pots, making planters) Kids’ crafts (Halloween, Christmas ornaments, Mother’s Day projects)

Sewing, Fashion, and Accessories

Sewing clothes, bags, accessories Knitting/crochet Alterations and upcycling (hemming, zippers, buttons, old jeans and t-shirts)

DIY Cooking / Homemade Products

Homemade food (bread, pasta, preserves) Homemade products (cosmetics, soaps, scented candles) Household products (laundry detergent, cleaners)

Gardening and Outdoor Projects

Vegetable gardens (boxes, planters, compost bins) Outdoor decoration (lanterns, benches, furniture) Eco-friendly projects (birdhouses,
insect hotels)

DIY Technology

Electronic repairs, Network setup, Smart home projects, Connected devices,  3D printers, computers

Who Practices DIY?

Mostly men aged 35–54, homeowners, regular DIYers, motivated by cost savings and the desire to create/build… but increasingly women are also engaging in DIY for leisure or necessity!

Marc, 42, knows the IKEA instruction manual by heart! He started assembling a shelf 10 years ago, and since then, nothing stops him. Attic insulation? Challenge accepted. Laying concrete-effect tiles? Why not! He loves the idea of “doing better than the pros,” even if it takes ten times longer. His ideal DIY weekend? A strong coffee, his “DIY motivation” playlist in the background, and a drill in hand. He’s subscribed to all YouTube tutorials that start with “5 tricks you didn’t know about…” and swears by the pleasure of homemade work.

Anna, 36, is the MacGyver of Scandinavian minimalism. When she says, “I’ll just repaint this chair,” it’s usually the start of a complete living room makeover. For her, DIY is about expressing creativity, breaking free from standards, and asserting identity. She loves giving objects a second life: a pallet becomes an outdoor sofa, an old drawer becomes a wall shelf. She juggles between her laptop and drill, and her
Instagram community follows every decor transformation. For her, DIY is a bit like yoga—but with the smell of sawdust. Marc and Anna aren’t professionals—they’re still learning their tools and may not know all safety rules. Doesn’t this put them at serious risk?

How Frequent Are DIY Accidents?

According to a recent UK publication, more than two-thirds of British people have experienced a DIY-related accident, ranging from hammering their fingers to bumping their heads on beams. 12% sought medical attention.

Most common incidents are:
Cuts/lacerations: 25–30%
Crush injuries/bruises: 15%
Falls/slips on wet surfaces: 15–20%

Burns/electric shocks: 10%
Eye injuries/inhalation of toxic products: 5%

How to Avoid DIY Incidents?

Most DIY incidents involve cutters, saws, drills, hammers, ladders, stepladders, or screwdrivers.

They can be prevented with simple but essential precautions:
Read tool manuals and watch tutorials if inexperienced
Wear protective gear: gloves, goggles, masks, helmets, or safety shoes depending on the task
 Never underestimate risks, even for simple tasks (sanding, painting, gardening)
 Work in a safe environment (clean, uncluttered, well-lit)
 Avoid DIY alone if the task is risky
 Use tools in good condition
 Turn off the power before any electrical work and use a voltage detector before
drilling
 Never work at height without support or someone holding the ladder

In summary: PREPARATION, PROTECTION, CAUTION!

Oops, an Injury… What to Do?
Marc and Anna eventually met through their shared DIY passion and now work together as a couple! After hanging new frames on the walls, Anna wanted to change the living room lighting. While Marc held the ladder, she broke the bulb and cut her finger.
They have had their share of cuts and know exactly what to do! Their first aid kit is well-
stocked.
To stop the bleeding and promote healing of Anna’s cut, Marc uses Stop Hémo® SPRAY.
Practical and easy to use:
1. Clean the wound,
2. Shake the spray,
3. Spray the powder on the wound,
4. Let it work!
Anna’s wound thus benefits from the hemostatic and healing properties of calcium alginate (from seaweed) while being protected from external factors. They can then safely resume their DIY activities!

KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER

DIY has seen significant growth in recent years: home renovation, interior decoration, sewing, various homemade projects, gardening and outdoor improvements, technological projects… there’s something for everyone! Although still mostly practiced by men, DIY is becoming more popular among women, who are increasingly taking on projects out of interest, curiosity, or necessity. Two-thirds of DIY enthusiasts have experienced accidents, which can be easily prevented with proper preparation, precaution, and caution.
If you happen to cut or scrape yourself during a DIY project, Stop Hémo® SPRAY provides the hemostatic and healing properties of calcium alginate (derived from seaweed) while protecting your wound from external factors. With the holiday season approaching, make sure to keep your environment safe while decorating your living room with your children!

Sources:

1. DIY and home improvement in Europe – Statistics & Facts, Statista, accessed 09/09/2025.
2. DIY Home Improvement Market – Trends & Growth Forecasts (2024–2029), Mordor Intelligence, accessed 10/09/2025.

Το άρθρο DIY AT HOME: OUR TIPS FOR DOING IT SAFELY εμφανίστηκε πρώτα στο Stop Hemo.

Gum Bleeding: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Bleeding gums may occur as a result of using a hard toothbrush or brushing too vigorously. This happens because gums are made of delicate tissues and, therefore, can easily be damaged by poor brushing techniques. However, it is also important to note that gum bleeding may not only be caused by mechanical irritation but can also signal an underlying oral health problem or a systemic condition.

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1. What Causes Gum Bleeding?

Poor oral hygiene is one of the most common causes of gum bleeding. In fact, when dental plaque and tartar accumulate, they create the perfect environment for bacteria to multiply. As a result, these bacteria irritate the gums, which in turn leads to inflammation and, eventually, bleeding.

Gum diseases

• Gingivitis: inflammation of the gums caused by bacterial plaque.

• Periodontitis: a deeper infection affecting the supporting tissues of the tooth. According to the WHO, periodontitis affects 10–15% of the world’s population.

Nutritional deficiencies
Vitamin deficiencies, particularly in vitamin C and K, can weaken the gums. A balanced diet is essential for oral health.

Hormonal factors
Hormonal changes (especially during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause) can make gums more sensitive.

Certain medications
Drugs such as anticoagulants, immunosuppressive treatments, or chemotherapy can increase the risk of gum bleeding.

Underlying health conditions
Chronic gum bleeding may sometimes be a symptom of conditions such as blood clotting disorders (hemophilia, leukemia), platelet disorders, vascular diseases, or diabetes.

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2. How to Prevent Gum Bleeding?

Oral Hygiene

To begin with, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. Brushing your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using gentle circular movements helps protect the gums; at the same time, the toothbrush should be replaced every three months for optimal effectiveness. In addition, dental floss should be used daily to remove plaque between the teeth, while an antiseptic mouthwash can further reduce oral bacteria.

Dietary Adjustments

Prevention also depends on a balanced diet. For example, increasing vitamin C intake through citrus fruits and green vegetables strengthens the gums, whereas consuming foods rich in vitamin K, such as spinach and broccoli, supports healthy clotting. On the other hand, limiting sugar and processed foods helps reduce plaque buildup.

Healthy Lifestyle

Finally, lifestyle choices play a key role. Quitting smoking is strongly recommended, as tobacco worsens gum problems. At the same time, managing stress is important, since stress can weaken the immune system. Lastly, limiting alcohol consumption is advisable, because alcohol irritates the oral mucosa.

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3. What to Do When Gums Bleed?

Most gum bleeding is occasional and, in most cases, does not require medical treatment. In such situations, you can simply rinse your mouth with diluted salt water or use an antiseptic mouthwash. However, if the bleeding does not stop — particularly if you are taking anticoagulant medications — it is advisable to apply a Stop Hémo® swab directly to the lesion and then remove it once the bleeding has stopped.

Stop Hémo® promotes hemostasis through a dual action:

• Mechanical (compression): by providing support for platelet adhesion.

• Biological: by releasing calcium ions that play a role in platelet aggregation and accelerate fibrin formation.

If bleeding persists or becomes chronic, make an appointment with a dentist.

The most appropriate treatment will largely depend on the underlying cause. For example, if bleeding is caused by gingivitis, the dentist will perform a scaling procedure and may prescribe an antiseptic mouthwash. If an underlying condition is suspected, a physical exam or blood test may be recommended.

Key Points to Remember
Congenital bleeding disorders are typically linked to a deficiency or dysfunction of blood platelets or clotting factors, which means that affected individuals often experience prolonged bleeding. Therefore, in the event of a nosebleed, immediate and effective management is essential so as to prevent significant blood loss.

Stop Hémo® swab is recommended for people suffering from congenital bleeding disorders.

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Sources:

• WebMD – Nosebleeds: When to Call a Doctor – accessed 28/01/2025

• Cleveland Clinic – Bleeding Gums – accessed 28/01/2025

• Healthline – How to Stop Bleeding Gums – accessed 28/01/2025

Το άρθρο Bleeding Gums: Why Do They Happen and What Can You Do? εμφανίστηκε πρώτα στο Stop Hemo.

Many everyday activities—such as sports, cooking, gardening, or DIY projects—can lead to minor injuries. Although they rarely require a medical professional, proper care is essential. Indeed, the main goal is to avoid infection, because the faster a wound heals, the less noticeable the scar will be.

Scarring is a natural process that occurs when the skin repairs itself, not only after surgery but also after a simple cut or scratch. While some scars are unavoidable, it is possible to make them as invisible as possible and improve their appearance. Generally, a wound heals in about 2 to 3 weeks. However, the speed of healing of superficial wounds depends on lifestyle, overall health, and age. This article provides the treatment and care needed.

Superficial Wounds Treatment and Care – Step by Step

1. Clean the wound
   Rinse the wound with cool water and mild soap, or use saline solution (NaCl 0.9%). This clears residues and thus helps prevent infection.
2. Protect and keep it moist
   Cover the wound and maintain moisture using the Stop Hémo® product line. Made of calcium alginate, Stop Hémo® is hydrophilic: it absorbs blood or exudate and at the same time keeps the wound in a moist environment that is favorable for wound healing.
   • Stop Hémo® swab: for small cuts, scrapes, or scratches.
   • Stop Hémo® spray: for larger or hard-to-treat wounds (such as those in hairy areas, scalp, skin folds, or between fingers).
     In addition, Stop Hémo® releases calcium ions, which support the natural wound healing process.
3. Be careful when changing dressings
   If a dressing sticks to the wound, do not pull it off abruptly, since this may damage the new skin and cause re-bleeding. Instead, moisten it with saline or run it under the shower to detach it easily.
4. Do not remove the scab
   Allow it to fall off naturally. Picking scabs can disrupt healing and increase the risk of scarring.
5. Massage with a healing cream
   When the scab falls off, massage the skin with a healing cream twice daily until the wound heals completely. As a result, massaging helps break down scar tissue and improve circulation. Moreover, many creams are available on the market, so ask your pharmacist for advice.
6. Avoid sun exposure
   Protect the wound from sunlight for at least one year. UV rays can cause permanent hyperpigmentation of new skin. Therefore, if the wound is on your face or hands, apply SPF 50 sunscreen daily, regardless of the weather.

Importance of Moist Wound Healing

Modern medicine recognizes that a moist wound healing environment has many benefits. For example, it prevents dehydration, reduces pain and scarring, stimulates collagen synthesis, and promotes cell migration. Consequently, this accelerates recovery and improves the overall quality of healing.

Conclusion

Understanding the basics of superficial wounds treatment and care is essential for faster healing and better aesthetic results. By cleaning the wound properly, keeping it moist, and protecting it from trauma and sunlight, you can reduce the risk of infection and scarring.

👉 Tip: Always keep Stop Hémo® swabs and sprays in your first-aid kit. They provide fast and effective protection, supporting the body’s natural healing process.

KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER

While scars are a natural part of the healing process, taking proactive steps to care for superficial
wounds can significantly minimise their visibility and the likelihood of long-term scarring.
Consult a doctor if the wound is deep, bleeds heavily or if you notice any signs of infection such as
redness, swelling, pain or warmth. You should also consult a doctor if you are unable to clean the
wound yourself, or if foreign bodies need to be removed.

Source:
Johns Hopkins Medicine – Everyday Cuts and Scrapes: How to Prevent Scarring (accessed 07/03/2024)

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Nosebleeds (epistaxis) are very common in children aged 3 to 10 years old. They can look scary, however they are usually not serious. In this article, we explain how to stop your child’s nosebleed effectively and, in addition, when to seek medical attention.

The most frequent causes of nosebleeds in children include:

Nose picking

Nose blowing or sneezing

Dry and cold air

Allergy medications

Trauma to the nose

How to Stop the Nosebleed?

Firstly, stay calm and reassure your child.

Have your child sit upright in a chair or on your lap, and at the same time tilt the head slightly forward. Do not lean back, because this may cause blood to flow down the throat, leading to gagging, coughing, or vomiting.

Gently pinch the soft part of the nose (just below the bony ridge).

Keep pressure for about 10 minutes; if you stop too soon, bleeding may start again.

After the nosebleed, encourage your child to rest quietly for a couple of hours. Moreover, discourage nose-blowing, picking, rubbing, or rough play.

In addition to applying pressure, you may use a Stop Hémo® hemostatic swab. When in contact with blood, the swab gelifies and releases calcium ions, supporting the natural clotting process. It is simple to use at all ages:

Twist the swab and insert it into the bleeding nostril.

Apply pressure for 10 minutes.

Remove gently after 30 minutes.

If needed, moisten the swab with saline solution (NaCl 0.9%) to ease insertion.

For more information, always read the instructions for use.

Should I Call a Doctor?

Most nosebleeds can be cared for at home. Nevertheless, you should consult a doctor if your child:

Has frequent or heavy nosebleeds

May have inserted an object into the nose (e.g., marbles, beads)

Recently started taking a new medicine

Bleeds as a result of a fall or head injury

Keeps bleeding after two continuous 10-minute compressions

Appears pale, dizzy, or loses consciousness

Bleeds from both nostrils or has blood flowing into the throat

Key Points to Remember

Nosebleeds (epistaxis) are very common in children and are often caused by harmless activities.

Most nosebleeds cause only minor discomfort.

With calm first aid, nosebleeds can usually be managed at home.

Persistent or severe bleeding requires medical attention.

Sources:

KidsHealth – Nosebleeds

Royal Children’s Hospital – Nosebleeds

For more information, read the instructions for use.

3. Should I Call a Doctor?

Most nosebleeds can be treated at home. Nevertheless, you should call a doctor if your child:

• Has frequent or heavy nosebleeds

• May have inserted something into the nose (such as marbles or beads)

• Has recently started a new medication

• Bleeds after a fall or a blow to the head

• Continues to bleed after two continuous, uninterrupted 10-minute compressions

• Appears pale, dizzy, or loses consciousness

• Bleeds from both nostrils and the blood flows into the back of the throat

Το άρθρο MY CHILD HAS NOSEBLEED, CAUSES AND FIRST AID εμφανίστηκε πρώτα στο Stop Hemo.