What should you know about ice on minor burns?

A burn has already damaged the skin barrier. Ice or very cold water can cause additional cold injury, reduce sensation, and make it harder to judge the burn. A minor superficial burn is often red, sore, and dry, with no deep tissue damage. Blisters, white or charred skin, numbness, extensive swelling, or a burn in a sensitive area need more careful assessment.

Move away from the heat source and remove jewellery or tight clothing near the area before swelling develops, unless it is stuck to the skin. Cool the burn under clean, cool running water, then cover it loosely with a sterile non-stick dressing or clean cling film. Do not pop blisters or apply butter, toothpaste, oils, or adhesive material. Keep the area clean and change a wet or dirty covering.

Obtain urgent care for burns involving the face, hands, feet, genitals, major joints, or a large area, and for electrical or chemical burns. Seek medical advice for deep-looking skin, severe pain, spreading redness, pus, fever, or a wound that is not healing. A burn in a child, older adult, or person with reduced sensation also deserves a lower threshold for review.

Ask how deep the burn appears, what dressing suits its location, how to manage pain, when to change the covering, and which signs suggest infection or delayed healing.