Bedsores occur in stages: Stage 1 has unbroken, but pink or ashen (in darker skin) discoloration with perhaps slight itch or tenderness. Stage 2 has red, swollen skin with a blister or open areas. Stage 3 has a crater-like ulcer extending deeper into the skin.

What do bed sores start out looking like?

First signs.

One of the first signs of a possible skin sore is a reddened, discolored or darkened area (an African American's skin may look purple, bluish or shiny). It may feel hard and warm to the touch.

What is the best thing to put on a bed sore?

Treatment for bedsores depends on the stage and depth of the wound. You can clean stage one ulcers with mild soap and water and cover with a moisture-barrier lotion. More advanced bedsores may require medical care. Your care team may clean the wound with saline and cover it with a special bandage.