7 home remedies for burns

Experiencing a burn, whether from sun exposure, cooking mishaps, or other accidents, can be painful and uncomfortable. Different types of burns can range from mild to life-threatening, and they’re often classified into three main degrees: 

• First-degree burn: Affects only the outer layer of skin
• Second-degree burn: Damages the underlying dermis 
• Third-degree burn: Reaches deeper tissues

While first- and second-degree burns can receive home treatment, more severe burns require immediate medical attention. 

Fortunately, various treatments are available to help treat minor burns like first- and second-degree burns. Natural solutions and home remedies can reduce pain and inflammation and, in some cases, promote healing. Read on to learn more about what can be done to treat minor burns at home and when to see a healthcare provider.

Home remedies for burns

Experiencing a minor burn requires immediate action to alleviate the pain and prevent further complications. Burned skin from a minor burn typically presents as redness, slight swelling, pain, and dry, peeling skin without blisters. 

1. Cool water

After receiving a minor burn, one of the first steps is to run cool water over the burned area for about 20 minutes. Avoid using cold water or ice, as these may cause damage to the tissue. After rinsing the burn under cool running water, clean the affected area gently using mild soap and water. This burn treatment helps to prevent infection and assists in the healing process.

2. Cool compresses

Instead of running cool water over the burn, use a cool compress to relieve and reduce swelling. Dampen a clean cloth or towel with cool water and gently apply it to the affected area. Avoid pressing too hard, as this may worsen the pain. Change the compress if it gets warm, and reapply as needed.

3. Aloe vera gel

Applying aloe vera gel to the burned area can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. This natural remedy is known for its skin-repairing properties and can stimulate healing in the affected area. For maximum effectiveness, use pure aloe vera gel rather than products containing added ingredients.

4. Petroleum jelly

Petroleum jelly can be a soothing follow-up after the initial treatment of a minor burn with cool water. It helps keep the area moist to support healing and creates a protective barrier that prevents bacteria from entering. Gently apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the burn. Do not use it on open wounds or blisters.

5. Honey

Honey is a delicious ingredient and has healing properties that may help treat minor burns. Its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help prevent infection and speed up healing. Gently spread a thin layer of raw honey on the burn, then cover it with a loose bandage or gauze. 

6. Licorice root

Licorice root, known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, can be an effective home remedy for burns. Licorice root can be ground into a powder and mixed with a small amount of water to create a paste. Additionally, licorice root extract can be found in topical gels or ointments. Gently apply the paste or ointment to the affected area. This natural remedy can help reduce inflammation and soothe the skin.

7. Gotu kola

Gotu kola, also known as Centella asiatica, is a herb that has been used in traditional medicine for its healing properties. It is believed to increase collagen production and improve circulation, aiding in the healing of burns. A cream or ointment containing Centella asiatica can be applied to the burned area to help promote skin repair and reduce scarring. 

While natural home remedies can effectively treat minor burns, consult a healthcare provider if any concerns arise. If unsure about the severity of a burn or if it’s not healing properly, seek medical advice.

Things to avoid for burns

It’s important to know what to do and avoid to prevent further irritation or infection when treating a minor burn.

• Butter and oils: Never apply butter, cooking oils, or similar substances to the burned area, as they can trap heat in the skin and worsen the burn.
• Ice or extremely cold water: Do not use ice or extremely cold water, as they can cause additional tissue damage. Use cool water for initial treatment.
• Cotton wool or fluffy materials: Avoid using cotton wool or fluffy materials for dressing a burn, as their fibers can stick to the wound.
• Fragranced creams or ointments: Be cautious with over-the-counter topical creams or lotions with fragrances or additives, as they may trigger allergic reactions or skin sensitivities.
• Toothpaste: Do not apply toothpaste to a burn. It is not sterile and can introduce bacteria, potentially causing infection.
• Egg whites: Applying egg whites to burns is a myth and should be avoided. Like toothpaste, egg whites are not sterile and can increase the risk of infection.
• Sun Exposure: Protect the burned area from direct sun exposure to avoid sunburn, which can further aggravate the burn and increase the risk of scarring. 

In addition to avoiding sun exposure and certain substances, avoid breaking blisters. They are a natural protective barrier against infection. If a blister breaks, clean it gently with mild soap and water and cover it with a non-stick bandage.

Medications for burns

Various medications are available for treating minor burns. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as antibiotic ointments and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may be recommended to prevent infections and reduce pain or inflammation. 

Antibiotic ointments

Topical antibiotics are first-line options for preventing infections that can develop in a burn wound. These topical treatments help keep the area clean and reduce the risk of bacterial growth. Some topical products contain a combination of different antibiotics and other ingredients to reduce pain. Here are a few common OTC and prescription options:

• Neosporin (neomycin/bacitracin/polymyxin B)
• Polysporin (bacitracin/polymyxin B)
• Bactroban (mupirocin)
• Silvadene (silver sulfadiazine)

The choice of antibiotic will depend on the severity of the burn and other factors. For example, Polysporin may be more suitable than Neosporin for people allergic to neomycin. While OTC topical antibiotics can be helpful for minor burns, prescription topical antibiotics, such as Bactroban and Silvadene, are generally reserved for more serious second-degree or third-degree burns. 

Certain dressings

Specialized dressings for burns protect the wound from infection and help keep a moist environment for healing. These dressings often come infused with substances like silver to fight bacteria and prevent infections. Examples of such dressings are:

• Mepilex Ag (silver foam dressing)
• Aquacel Ag (hydrofiber with ionic silver)

The type of dressing recommended will depend on the severity of the burn. Some dressing types may be more appropriate for serious burns than others. 

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly found over the counter and can be used for symptoms of burn injuries, such as pain and inflammation. Some widely used NSAIDs include:

• Advil (ibuprofen)
• Aleve (naproxen)
• Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid)
• Tylenol (acetaminophen)

Tetanus shot 

A tetanus shot may be necessary for some burns, particularly those that are more severe or contaminated. Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection that can occur when a wound becomes contaminated with the bacterium Clostridium tetani. If a tetanus shot has not been received in the past ten years or if the burn is notably severe, seeking advice from a healthcare professional regarding a tetanus booster is recommended.

Always follow the labeled directions for OTC and prescription medications. Consult a healthcare provider if a burn is severe or accompanied by an open wound.

Other treatment options for burns

First- and second-degree burns can be relatively minor and treated with over-the-counter antibiotic ointments. However, third- and fourth-degree burns are generally more severe and can affect multiple layers of the skin, leading to complications. Therefore, more intensive treatments are usually required. 

For more severe burns, some procedures may include:

• Skin grafts: This is performed through a surgical procedure where healthy skin is taken from unaffected body areas and placed onto the burned area to repair damaged or missing skin.
• Reconstructive surgery: Used in cases of extensive skin damage, reconstructive surgery can help restore the function and appearance of the affected area. This may involve multiple surgeries and treatments.
• Debridement: This treatment involves the removal of dead or damaged tissue. As a result, it can create a more favorable environment for healing the burn wound.
• Physical therapy: Physical therapy may be helpful after a burn injury, especially when mobility is affected. Over time, physical therapy can help improve strength and flexibility in the injured area.

In addition to these procedures, alternative treatments such as acupuncture may offer relief for pain management and improve the overall healing process. Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the nervous system, which may help reduce pain and inflammation.

When to see your healthcare provider

Although some minor burns can be treated effectively at home, more severe burns require medical care from a healthcare provider. Immediate medical attention is often necessary for major burns, which can damage the outer layer of skin and deeper layers of tissue. 

Healthcare professionals can assess the severity of the burn and prescribe medications or other treatments as needed. Consult a healthcare provider for an evaluation if treating a minor burn at home and experience any of the following:

• The burn is larger than three inches in diameter.
• The burn is on sensitive areas, such as the face, hands, feet, genitals, or over major joints.
• There are signs of infection, such as increasing pain, redness, swelling, or oozing from the burn area.
• An electrical or chemical burn has occurred.
• A tetanus shot has not been received in the past decade, or the burn may result from contact with a potentially contaminated object.
• Chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or a compromised immune system, are present.

If doubts or concerns arise, professional care should be sought. A healthcare provider can offer guidance on the most suitable treatment to minimize scarring or infections and promote proper burn healing.