Being burned can be a harrowing experience. Burns can take a long time to heal and often leave scars. The younger a burn is suffered, the easier it is to heal, depending on the degree. First-degree burns affect only the top layer of skin and can be red and very painful. Those of the second degree are usually deeper and usually form a blister. The skin can become very swollen, and the pain is more severe. The third grade is the worst: the skin will appear white or charred.
The instructions below are for burns that cover a small area. It is best to see a doctor immediately for extensive second-degree burns and any third-degree burns. Continue reading this FastlyHealarticle and discover how to heal a minor burn quickly and step by step.
Table of Contents
What are minor burns?
Burns that are considered minor are first degree burns, which can be initially treated at home following a series of measures, as we will see below.
Burns are generally classified into three categories based on the percentage of skin affected:
First degree burns
These burns are the least serious. They only affect the upper and outer layer of the skin, and when they do occur, the affected skin turns red, swollen, and bearable pain is experienced when the burned area is touched.
Second degree burns
Second-degree burns affect a deeper layer than first-degree burns, that is, the first and second layers of the skin. In this case, the skin turns intense red, swells, blisters, and pain is experienced.
Third-degree burns
These are the most severe burns, and it is that they damage all the layers of the skin, causing permanent damage to the skin tissues. Sometimes even the bones can be affected. The skin, in this case, is black or white, dry or with a charred appearance.
Heal minor burns step by step.
The first aid that we detail below should be used for minor burns that do not reach more than 7 cm; since then, it will be necessary to seek medical attention immediately. To heal first degree burns at home, you must follow the steps listed below:
- If clothing is stuck to the burn, it must be removed very carefully.
- The first thing you have to do is pour cold water on the burn for about 5 minutes. This “cools” the burn and prevents its spread. It is also possible to fill a container with cold water, soak gauze and apply it to the burned area. It is essential not to put ice directly on damaged skin.
- If the person who has suffered the burn tolerates aspirin, it is best to take one to ease the pain. Instead, you can also take other over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Apply an aloe vera ointment, or look for some other type of ointment especially indicated for burns.
- Something significant is to keep the burn clean, even if it is a painful process. Gently wash the burned area with soap and water. Repeat this cleaning every time you change the bandage.
- Cover the burn with a clean bandage. The dressing change should be done at least once a day.
Other tips to keep in mind to heal a minor burn fast and make damaged skin heal are entirely:
- Do not pop or squeeze the blisters if they appear, as open blisters could become infected.
- Do not scratch the burn.
- See a doctor if the burn is excruciating.
- Avoid using oils or lotions that may be irritating or aggressive to the skin.
As home remedies to cure minor burns, aloe vera, lavender, and plantain leaves, among others, can work well. Discover these and many more options in the article Home remedies to heal burns.
When to see the doctor for burns
It is essential to see a doctor in case of severe burns and when the following circumstances occur:
- The burn has occurred from fire, electrical cables or plugs, or handling of chemicals.
- The burn is more significant than 5 cm.
- Burns occur on sensitive parts of the body such as the face, groin, head, or thighs.
- If you experience increased pain, a lot of swelling, pus, swollen lymph nodes, or fever.
This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to How to heal a minor burn fast , we recommend that you enter our Skin, hair and nails category .
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.