Home Care For Burns
If you get a minor burn from touching something like a hot pan or
curling iron, you will need to act quickly to minimize the pain and severity.
Home treatment is usually all that is needed for healing and to prevent
infections. Immediately run the burned area under cold water or apply a
cold pack. The cool water lowers skin temperature and stops the burn
from becoming more serious. Avoid putting ice cubes in direct contact
with the skin since they can damage the skin. In addition, the myth of
rubbing butter on the burn can actually make the burn worse because
grease holds heat in. After 30 minutes, apply an antibiotic ointment and
wrap loosely with a bandage. Anti-inflammatory agents such as ibuprofen
may help reduce swelling and ease pain. As we all know, even small burns
can hurt for hours.
Most minor burns will heal with home treatment in 3 to 5 days.
However, seek emergency assistance if the burn is large or badly
blistered. Your health care provider should also immediately evaluate
burns caused by an electrical outlet or appliance.