Rips-healing and prevention

[Sophie]

Although there are tons of posts about rips, I've heard lots of different suggestions and I just don't know what to do. I do wear grips, but I rip around them. Currently I have 4 rips, 2 of which are new from today. I have 3 days till my next meet. I don't know if I should let everything dry out, or to moisturize them? They keep ripping on top of each other over and over. Any advice on how to heal or prevent?

 

[MVJ]

NOOO! I repeat, do NOT let dry out. If your let your rips dry, they begin to crack...and then the bar catches on the rough skin... You get the picture! Moisturize, but not right before training or a competition because obviously you could slip and/or get another rip on the softened skin. Use a non-scented moisturizer so it doesn't sting or irritate any skin (i.e. vaseline).

Personally, my regimen when I get a rip is:

1. Wash rip so there is no chalk in sight.
2. Clip away ALL dead skin
3. Apply generous amount of Vaseline on rip
4. Apply aloe vera gel
5. Wear a sock over hand(s) to bed
6. Repeat

What I do to help prevent rips:

-buff down callouses with a pumice stone
-wear tape grips underneath grips
-apply an aloe vera and/or vitamin E based (clear) gel


There are SO many methods and you kind of just have to try a whole bunch to see which one works. Then again, ask your coach if you can skip just a day of bars and work strap bar and some casts.

Good luck on your meet if it isn't too late!