Burn First Aid and Home Care
Care Instructions
A burn is caused by heat, chemicals, or electricity affecting the skin. The most common are first and second-degree burns, where the skin becomes red and painful or blisters appear. Fast first aid is crucial in limiting the depth and extent of the injury.
Treating a burn
Cool the burn area immediately with cool (not ice-cold) water for at least 10–20 minutes. Cooling stops the tissue damage from progressing and relieves pain. Do not use ice or snow directly on the skin, as it can cause frostbite on the damaged area.
Small, red burns usually heal on their own. You can protect the area with a grease gauze and a clean dressing. If blisters rise on the skin, do not pop them, as an intact blister protects the tissue underneath from infection. If a blister breaks, clean the area with disinfectant and cover it with a non-stick dressing.
Contact a doctor if:
- The burn is larger than a palm.
- The burn is deep (skin is blackened, white, or numb).
- The burn is on the face, hands, feet, or genital area.
- Signs of infection appear (pus, heat, increasing pain).
Book an appointment
If you cannot find a suitable time in the calendar, you can also book by calling our nearest clinic or visiting us directly.