First aid for a minor burn

A minor burn is often red, painful and superficial, and may develop a small blister. Heat, hot liquid, steam, chemicals, electricity and sunlight can all injure skin, but their risks differ. The apparent size can change as swelling develops, so keep watching the area after the initial injury.

A burn on the face, hands, feet, genitals or over a major joint deserves a lower threshold for medical advice. Chemical and electrical burns also need professional assessment even when the skin looks limited.

Stop the heat source and cool the burn with cool running water for at least twenty minutes when possible. Remove rings, watches and tight clothing near the injury before swelling increases, but do not pull away anything stuck to the skin. Cover the area with a sterile non-stick dressing or clean plastic wrap placed loosely. Do not apply ice, butter, oil, toothpaste or adhesive dressings, and do not burst blisters. Keep the dressing clean and dry, and follow wound-care advice.

Seek urgent care for a burn that is white, charred, numb, leathery, deep, larger than the person’s palm, or caused by electricity or chemicals. Get prompt help for burns involving the face, airway, hands, feet, genitals or a major joint. Medical review is also needed if redness spreads, pain worsens, discharge appears or fever develops.

Ask which dressing suits the wound, how often it should be changed, whether tetanus protection is up to date, and which pain relief is safe with your health conditions.