How To Treat A First Degree Burn

A first degree burn is a burn that is usually associated with spending too much time in the sun. Of course, you can get this type of burn from other means also, but it is the least severe case of a burn. Treating this type of burn can be done with some easy to use over the counter medications and your basic medical training supplies. This mild burn can also be treated, and soothed, with some home remedies. For the times when you do receive a first degree burn, here are some ways to treat it to give a little bit of comfort and soothe the stinging of it.

Ways To Treat A First Degree Burn

One of the common misconceptions is that you do not necessarily need to treat a first degree burn. This is a mistake as first degree burn treatment can save you unnecessary discomfort. If the burn is allowed to stay that way, and it is being irritated through the day, it can crack open or become infected. This is in extreme cases, however, the need for treatment is real and should be adhered to.

This type of burn can happen in many different ways.

  • The main causes are from a sunburn, burning yourself with steam from boiling water, or even brushing up against a hot pan or pipe.

  • These burns present themselves as red, almost rash like. This type of burn will sting to the touch causing mild pain.

  • When you experience this type of burn, treatment should be fairly quick so you can alleviate some of the initial pain. Cooling the skin area is the first order of business.

Cool Water

  • Immediately after you realize that you have a burn, begin running cool water of the surface.

  • Make sure the water is running gently. You are not trying to wash the burn off, you are simply trying to soothe it with cool water.

  • Let the water run over it for at least five minutes. This will stop the burn from growing, and getting any worse. Pat the burn dry with a soft cloth.

Use Mild Burn Cream

  • Once you have the burn cooled off you can then use some petroleum jelly, or other type of mild burn cream.

  • Rub it on the burned area gently. Do not worry about being too conservative with the cream. Use a good amount and let it sit open for a few minutes.

  • This cream will keep the area moisturized so the skin does not dry out and leave any type of burn scars.

Dress The Wound

  • Once the cream has been applied to the burned area, you can then wrap some type of wound dressings on it.

  • This does not have to be a large amount of gauze or wrappings. You just need to cover it.

  • Make sure it is breathable material and does not close off the area completely from any air. A loose wrapping will be sufficient to help keep the area clean, but allow it to heal.

After you finish the first degree burn should heal pretty quickly. It is not a serious burn that requires and type of hospitalization, but should be treated as quickly as possible. Follow these easy instructions and you will not have to suffer through any discomfort or pain associated with the burn.