How To Treat Mild Burns and Blisters

Burns and blisters are caused when the body is exposed to either extreme heat, cold or chemicals that react with the skin. Sometimes a burn may be superficial, just skin deep. These can usually be dealt with at home with creams and cool washing. Deeper burns require medical assistance. The severity of a burn is determined by the heat of the source and the time it is in contact with the skin.

Blisters on the other hand are a build up of fluids beneath the skin. The fluid makes a raised circle just under the top layer of skin. Blisters can result from burns.

Scalding is a specific type of burn caused by steam. Possibly the most common type of burn seen is sunburn, which is caused to over exposure to the sun in hot weather.

Treatments for Mild Burns and Blisters

The first thing to do if someone is burnt is to run the affected area under a cold tap as soon as possible, and keep the water on the burn for 10 to 15 minutes. It can take up to 15 minutes for the skin to cool down and recover from the burn, so removing the cold water too soon can result in more damage. The cold water should also numb the area making the pain more bearable.

Burn Creams

There are many burn creams and sprays in the market. The main purpose of these creams is to actually prevent the burn area becoming infected. The body repairs the burn tissue itself.

Non-stick Dressings for Burns

These dressings are designed for use on burns and are impregnated with soothing antiseptic gels to aid healing and prevent infection.

What To Do If You Burn Your Hands

If you burn your hands it is important to remove any rings as soon as possible as once your hands swell the rings will get stuck and may impede blood flow, and slow healing.

Pain Relief for Minor Burns

If you have a minor burn then over the counter pain relief such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can be effective. Remember not to exceed the recommended dosage.

Should You Puncture Burn Blisters?

No, you should not burst a blister caused by a burn as the liquid inside the blister protects the burn area from becoming infected. The liquid is full of white blood cells that fight infection.

When Do You Seek Medical Attention?

If after burning yourself a blister forms and it becomes very swollen and painful then you should see a doctor or pharmacist. The size of the burn is important too. If the burn is more the one inch across, or goes all the way around a finger, then medical advice should be sought. Also if a burn does not appear to be healing then also see a doctor.