Which specialist performs minor burn treatment?

The clinician checks the burn’s depth, location, size, pain and appearance, then cleans and covers the area. They may recommend suitable pain relief, a dressing plan and review for healing or infection. Burns involving the face, hands, feet, genitals, major joints or a broad area can need more specialised care. Chemical, electrical and inhalation burns also require urgent assessment even when the skin injury looks limited.

Move away from the heat source and cool the burn under clean, cool running water for a sustained period. Remove rings, watches or tight clothing near the injury unless stuck to the skin. Cover it loosely with a clean, non-fluffy dressing. Do not apply ice, butter, oils or adhesive directly to the burn, and do not break blisters. Arrange clinical advice if pain, blistering or the location makes home care uncertain.

Go to an emergency department for a burn that is deep, white, black or numb; surrounds a limb; follows an electrical or chemical exposure; or is associated with smoke inhalation, facial swelling or breathing difficulty. Seek prompt review if redness spreads, pain increases, drainage develops or fever appears. Children, older adults and people with conditions affecting healing may need earlier assessment.

Ask how deep the burn appears, which dressing to use, how often to change it, how to control pain and which changes mean the wound needs another examination.