What are the treatment options for minor burns?

A minor burn is usually limited in area and affects the outer skin, causing redness, soreness and sometimes small blisters. The depth, location and cause matter more than appearance alone. Burns to the face, hands, feet, genitals or over a major joint can need assessment even when they look small. Electrical, chemical and inhalation injuries should not be managed as simple household burns.

Move away from the heat source and cool the area under clean, cool running water for a sustained period. Remove jewellery or clothing near the injury unless it is stuck to the skin. Do not apply ice, butter, oils or adhesive materials, and do not break blisters. Cover loosely with a sterile, non-stick dressing or clean film, keep it clean and change it as advised. A clinician can provide minor burn treatment or wound care and dressing when the area needs help.

Get urgent help for a burn that is deep, white, charred, numb, rapidly swelling or larger than expected. Seek immediate care after an electrical or chemical burn, breathing difficulty, smoke exposure, or injury involving the face, airway, hands or genitals. Arrange review if redness spreads, pain increases, pus or fever develops, or the wound is not improving.

Ask whether the burn depth and location need examination, which dressing is suitable, how often it should be changed, and what pain relief is safe with your other medicines. Check whether you need follow-up for healing or infection.