When is minor burn treatment recommended for minor burns?

A minor burn is usually limited in depth and area, with redness, tenderness, and possibly small blisters. A clinician checks the burn's depth, size, location, and cause, then considers movement, sensation, and the person's general health. Treatment may include cooling with cool running water, a non-stick covering, pain advice, and follow-up instructions. Do not apply ice, butter, toothpaste, or adhesive material directly to the injury, and do not burst blisters.

Move away from the heat source and remove nearby jewellery or clothing unless it is stuck to the skin. Cool the area with running water, protect it with a clean non-stick dressing, and keep the person warm overall. Arrange medical advice if pain is difficult to control, the dressing becomes wet or dirty, or healing is not progressing. Ask whether tetanus protection needs review. See [Minor Burn Treatment](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/minor-burn-treatment/) for related care.

Seek urgent care for burns involving the face, eyes, hands, feet, genitals, major joints, or a large area; deep white, brown, black, numb, or leathery skin; electrical or chemical injuries; circumferential burns; inhaled smoke; or breathing difficulty. Get prompt help for increasing redness, swelling, pus, fever, worsening pain, or red streaks, which may indicate infection.

Ask how deep the burn appears, which dressing to use, how often to change it, and how to wash the area. Clarify safe pain relief, signs of infection, activity restrictions, tetanus advice, and when the wound should be reviewed.