Eye Injury: First Aid for Minor Cuts

Topic Overview

• Use a sterile bandage if you have one. If you don't have one, use a clean bandage or cloth. Don't use fluffy cotton bandages around the eye. They could come apart and stick to the eye.
• Apply light pressure to a very minor skin cut near the eye to stop the bleeding. Do not apply any pressure to the eyeball. See how to clean a cut.
• If the cut is more than very minor or if you are concerned, have the cut evaluated by a health professional.

Note: A small cut on the inner eyelid may damage tear ducts and should be evaluated.