First degree burn treatment
Abnormal exposure to temperature causes skin damage. Minor burns are usually described as first-degree burns. Follow the treatment steps below, which are based on NHS recommendations:
1. Cool the burn:
“Cool the burn with cool or lukewarm running water for 20 minutes as soon as possible after the injury.” 1
2. CAUTION:
“Never use ice, iced water, or any creams or greasy substances like butter.” 1 Do not break the blisters! This is likely to contaminate the wound.
3. If you are an assisting person: Wash your hands!
Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
4. Cover the burn:
Protect the wound using a clean bandage.
When to seek medical advice
Only minor burns such as hand or finger burns should be treated at home and by cooling. A visit to the doctor is necessary, if:
- the burn is larger than the victim’s hand.
- the victim is pregnant, a child or an elderly person.
- the victim suffers a shock.
- the burn is caused by chemicals, electricity or radioactivity.
When in doubt, see a medical expert
Many common wounds can be dealt with at home. But when should a doctor be consulted? Scroll down for more information!
Expert wound care for minor burns
Leukomed® T
Sterile dressing for superficial and surgical wounds, and for fixing dressings.
Leukomed® T skin sensitive
Film to secure wound dressings on sensitive or compromised skin.
Medical references