First Aid for Burns: What Helps and What Hurts
Burns are one of the most common household and workplace injuries. Whether caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, or the sun, knowing what to do—and what not to do—can prevent serious complications.
Proper first aid for burns can reduce pain, limit damage, and support healing. Unfortunately, common myths and home remedies often make burns worse.
Here’s what truly helps—and what hurts.
Understanding Burn Severity
Before providing first aid, it’s important to recognize the degree of the burn.
First-Degree Burns
Affect only the outer layer of skin
Red, painful, and dry
Example: mild sunburn
Second-Degree Burns
Affect deeper layers of skin
Blistering, swelling, intense pain
May appear wet or shiny
Third-Degree Burns
Affect all layers of skin
May appear white, charred, or numb
Always a medical emergency
What Helps: Proper First Aid for Burns
1. Cool the Burn Immediately
Run cool (not cold) water over the burn for 10–20 minutes
This helps reduce heat, swelling, and tissue damage
Do NOT use ice—it can cause further injury.
2. Remove Tight Items
Gently remove rings, watches, or tight clothing near the burn
Swelling can happen quickly and restrict circulation
3. Protect the Burn
Cover loosely with a clean, non-stick dressing or cloth
This helps prevent infection and reduces pain
4. Use Pain Relief Safely
Over-the-counter pain relievers may help
Elevate the burned area when possible
5. Seek Medical Attention When Needed
Get immediate help if:
The burn is larger than the palm of the hand
Blisters form on the face, hands, feet, or joints
The burn is chemical, electrical, or third-degree
Signs of infection appear
What Hurts: Common Burn First Aid Mistakes
Using Ice
Ice can damage skin and worsen tissue injury.
Applying Butter, Oils, or Grease
These trap heat and increase the risk of infection.
Popping Blisters
Blisters protect the skin underneath. Breaking them increases infection risk.
Using Toothpaste or Home Remedies
Toothpaste, egg whites, and similar remedies can cause irritation and contamination.
Ignoring Severe Burns
Delaying medical care can lead to complications, scarring, or infection.
Special Types of Burns
Chemical Burns
Rinse immediately with running water for at least 20 minutes
Avoid neutralizing chemicals unless directed by professionals
Seek emergency care
Electrical Burns
Always call emergency services
Look for entry and exit wounds
Internal injuries may not be visible
Sunburns
Cool the skin and hydrate
Avoid further sun exposure
Seek care for blistering or severe pain
Why First Aid Training Matters
Burn injuries can escalate quickly if handled improperly. First aid training teaches you:
How to assess burn severity
Safe, evidence-based treatment methods
When emergency care is required
How to stay calm and act quickly
Proper training removes guesswork and prevents harmful mistakes.
Final Thoughts: Knowledge Prevents Further Injury
Knowing what helps—and what hurts—can make a major difference in burn outcomes. Avoid outdated remedies, act quickly, and always seek medical care for serious burns.
First aid knowledge isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
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