Do you need a referral for minor burn treatment?

You often do not need a referral for minor burn treatment, although the correct route depends on the burn and local service rules. A general practice, urgent-care service, or emergency department can advise on the right setting. A clinician may refer you onward if the burn is deeper than it first appears or needs specialist wound care.

A minor burn is usually small, superficial, and limited to the outer skin, with redness, tenderness, or a small blister. Cool running water can help during initial first aid. Do not apply ice, butter, oil, or adhesive material, and do not burst blisters. Remove jewellery or tight clothing near the area before swelling develops, unless it is stuck to the skin.

For a small burn, contact a local clinic or urgent-care service and explain when it happened, what caused it, where it is, and whether the skin is broken. Keep the area clean and covered with a suitable non-stick dressing if advised. A clinician can check pain, infection risk, tetanus history, and whether a dressing or follow-up is needed.

Seek urgent medical care for a burn that is deep, extensive, rapidly swelling, or numb; involves the face, hands, feet, genitals, major joints, or a large body area; or was caused by electricity, chemicals, smoke, or an explosion. Get prompt review for worsening pain, spreading redness, pus, fever, or delayed healing.

Ask whether the burn needs a dressing, how to control pain, when the wound should be checked, which warning signs indicate infection, and whether your tetanus vaccination needs review. Confirm whether you can wash, work, exercise, or expose the area to sunlight while it heals.