Minor burns — such as those from touching a hot surface, steam, or brief scalds — can often be treated safely at home. However, prompt and proper care is key to preventing infection and minimizing scarring.
Step-by-Step Care for a Minor Burn
1. Stop the Burning Process
- Remove yourself or the person from the source of heat.
- Turn off the heat source (e.g., stove, hot appliance).
- If clothing is on fire, stop, drop, and roll — then remove smoldering or hot clothing carefully.
2. Cool the Burn
- Run cool (not cold) water over the burn for 10–20 minutes.
- Or apply a clean, cool, damp cloth.
- Do not use ice, as it can damage tissue further.
(Source: Mayo Clinic, American Academy of Dermatology)
3. Remove Constrictive Items
- Gently remove rings, watches, or tight clothing before swelling starts.
4. Protect the Burn
- After cooling, cover the area with a non-stick sterile gauze or clean cloth.
- Avoid adhesive bandages directly on the wound.
- If needed, you can apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel or a water-based moisturizer to soothe pain.
(Avoid butter, toothpaste, oils, or creams not designed for burns.)
(Source: NHS, Cleveland Clinic)
5. Manage Pain
- Take over-the-counter pain relief such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) as directed.
6. Watch for Signs of Infection
- See a doctor if you notice:
- Increasing redness or swelling
- Pus or discharge
- Fever
- Pain that worsens after 2–3 days
When to Seek Medical Help
Call your doctor or visit urgent care if:
- The burn is larger than 3 inches (about the size of your palm).
- The burn is on the face, hands, feet, genitals, or major joints.
- The burn looks white, charred, or leathery.
- You are unsure about your tetanus vaccination status.
(Source: American Burn Association, Mayo Clinic, CDC)
Prevention Tips
- Keep hot drinks, irons, and stoves out of children’s reach.
- Use oven mitts and test bath water before use.
- Set your home water heater to below 120°F (49°C) to reduce scald risk.
Sources
- Mayo Clinic: “First Aid for Burns” —
https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-burns - American Academy of Dermatology (AAD): “How to Treat Minor Burns” —
https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/injured-skin/burns/minor-burns - NHS (UK): “Burns and Scalds — Treatment” —
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/burns-and-scalds/treatment/ - American Burn Association: “Burn Prevention and Care” —
https://ameriburn.org/prevention/ - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): “Preventing Scalds and Burns” —
https://www.cdc.gov/