According to "Braun-Falco's Dermatology," skin peels after a burn because the epidermis, which is the top layer of the skin, becomes too damaged and dehydrated to remain alive. Therefore, the dead skin cells slough off in layers. The best way to prevent this from occurring is to prevent a burn in the first place, but if you have already suffered from a burn, there are steps you can take to keep your skin as hydrated and healthy as possible to reduce its chances of peeling.
Step 1
Administer first aid as soon as you are burned. In the case of a minor burn, flush the burn with cool water to cool down the burn and remove any debris, then gently pat dry with a towel. According to "Handbook of Dermatology: A Practical Manual," properly caring for a burn can greatly reduce the skin's risk of peeling. Consult a physician immediately if you are moderately or severely burned.
Step 2
Apply antibiotic ointment to the burn with a cotton swab. According to "Braun-Falco's Dermatology," using antibiotic ointment on burns greatly speeds up the healing process and reduces the risk of skin peeling.
Step 3
Apply aloe vera gel to the burn with a cotton swab. According to "Handbook of Dermatology: A Practical Manual," aloe vera is hydrating and will reduce the risk of skin peeling by keeping the skin hydrated and as healthy as possible.
Step 4
Avoid exposure to the sun or other hot elements, such as tanning beds, while your burn is healing. According to "Braun-Falco's Dermatology," exposure to these elements could further damage the skin and increase the risk of skin peeling.
Things You'll Need
- Towel
- Antibiotic ointment
- Cotton swab
- Aloe vera gel
References
- "Braun-Falco's Dermatology"; Walter H.C. Burgdorf, Gerd Plewig, Helmut Heinrich Wolff, and Michael Landthaler; 2008
- "Cosmetic Dermatology: Principles and Practice"; Leslie Baumann; 2009
- "Handbook of Dermatology: A Practical Manual"; Margaret W. Mann, David R. Berk, Daniel L. Popkin, and Susan J. Bayliss; 2009
