by Rebecca Mikulin

Created on: July 29, 2011   Last Updated: July 30, 2011

First aid for first- and second-degree burns will largely determine the extent of the burn, as well as how long it might take to heal. First-degree burns are the burns which are often painful and red, but do not blister. Second-degree burns include blistering, and smaller ones (with blistering less than the size of a quarter) can be treated without medical intervention as long as no infection develops. Signs of infection may include swelling, increased pain and irritation, nausea, and fever – all indications that you need medical attention immediately. Alternatively, you can cool down and manage a first- or second-degree burn at home relatively easily and effectively.

Cool with Water

When the burn first occurs, it is very important to cool it down as quickly as possible. Take a cool shower or, if possible (such as in the case of burns on the hand), run it under cool tap water until the stinging subsides. Do not use very cold water, as this can make the pain worse and restrict vascular flow to the area. Proper circulation is essential for efficient healing.

Protect the Burn

Once the heat and sting have gone down, cover the burn with a light gauze bandage. This will help prevent irritation from dirt or other foreign matter, as well as keep it from mechanical damage by bumping into things. The nerve endings will also be raw, and the gauze can help keep the pain level down by eliminating most of the air flow over the painful area. Do not pop any blisters that form.

When to Use Antibiotics

Many antibiotic ointments, such as bacitracin or similar triple antibiotics, are petroleum-based and may hold heat in. However, after about 24-48 hours (depending on the severity of the burn) that’s no longer an issue, and antibiotic ointments may help prevent infection. It’s also a good idea to apply an antibiotic after blisters pop, because these will leave the area underneath especially vulnerable to bacteria and other infectious agents for a short time.

Pain Relief

Even with the best first-aid, burns are often painful and cause a lot of discomfort. If the pain is enough to interfere with your normal life, over-the-counter NSAIDS (ibuprofen, naproxen) are generally sufficient to keep the pain down to an easily-tolerable level. If the burn begins stinging again, cool water may help alleviate some of the pain.

Burns that do not have blisters or any kind of broken skin may benefit from the use of aloe vera gel, which gently soothes and cools the burn. Some studies indicate that aloe vera may help encourage healing, though such studies are ongoing. Especially in the first 24-48 hours, make sure to use 100% gel rather than any kind of lotion, because lotion may also hold in heat or irritate the damaged skin.

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