Articles
Burns: First aid
Is it a minor burn or a major burn?
Content
Is it a major or minor burn?
Treating major burns
Treating minor burns
When to seek emergency help
Treatment
Overview
When to get emergency help
Major burns
Minor burns
What to avoid
When to call your doctor
Content
Is it a major or minor burn?
Treating major burns
Treating minor burns
When to seek emergency help
Treatment
Overview
When to get emergency help
Major burns
Minor burns
What to avoid
When to call your doctor
What to avoid
- Don't use cold water to cool a burn. This can make the injury worse.
- Don't use butter, toothpaste or oil on the burn. These can trap heat, cause irritation and make the injury worse.
- Don't pull off clothing stuck to the burned skin.
- Don't pop blisters. They protect against infection. If a blister breaks, clean it gently with water and apply antibiotic ointment you can buy without a prescription.
