Apply firm, direct pressure with a clean tissue or gauze
Hold pressure continuously for 5 to 10 minutes without checking
Rinse the area with cool water before applying pressure if needed
Use a styptic pencil, alum block, or hemostatic pencil on the nick
Dab on a small amount of petroleum jelly to help seal minor cuts
Apply an ice cube wrapped in cloth to constrict blood vessels
Keep the area still and avoid rubbing or shaving over it
Reapply pressure if bleeding resumes
Use a clean bandage if the nick is in a spot that keeps reopening
Seek medical care if bleeding is heavy, won’t stop after 10 to 15 minutes, or you take blood thinners