What is the first treatment for minor burns?

Cooling helps remove heat from the skin and may limit ongoing tissue irritation. A minor burn may be red, sore, and sensitive, with a small blister. The depth, area, and location matter when deciding whether home care is suitable.

Hold the burn under cool running water for a sustained period, then pat it dry without rubbing. Remove jewellery or tight clothing near the area before swelling develops, provided nothing is stuck to the skin. Cover the burn loosely with a clean, non-fluffy dressing or cling film placed over the surface. Do not apply ice, butter, oils, or adhesive material directly to the burn, and do not burst blisters. Keep the dressing clean and change it as advised.

Arrange prompt assessment if the burn is deep, larger than your palm, wraps around a limb, or affects the face, hands, feet, genitals, or a major joint. Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, confusion, severe pain, extensive blistering, or a burn caused by electricity or chemicals. Increasing redness, warmth, swelling, discharge, fever, or worsening pain can indicate infection and needs medical review.

Ask whether the burn depth and location need an examination, which dressing suits the wound, and how often it should be changed. Confirm what pain relief is appropriate for you and which changes should prompt a return visit.