The scar an accidental burn leaves behind is a natural part of the healing process, notes the American Academy of Dermatology. The more extensive the injury to the skin and the longer your healing time, the more likely you'll have an obvious burn scar. The key to reducing scarring from burns is making sure that you receive prompt medical treatment. Keep in mind that not all burns should be self-treated; the Mayo Clinic states that first-degree burns and second-degree burns less than 3 inches in diameter may be treated as minor burns, as long as the burn doesn't affect your face, hands, feet, groin/genitals, buttocks or the area of skin over a major joint.
Step 1
Cool down the freshly burned skin by holding it under cool running water for 10 to 15 minutes or until the pain goes away. Or, submerge the burned skin in cool water, or apply a cool compress to the skin. Don't "ice" the burn, cautions the Mayo Clinic.
Step 2
Loosely cover or wrap the burned skin with new, sterile gauze--not cotton, advises the Mayo Clinic. Cotton and similar materials may cause pieces of lint to become embedded in the skin, which can lead to infection. Sterile gauze shields the burn from air and protects exposed blisters.
Step 3
Avoid home remedies, warns the Nassau County Fire Fighters Burn Center Foundation. Ointments, oils, creams and dairy butter inhibit healing. The longer it takes your skin to heal, the more likely you'll end up with a burn scar.
Step 4
Watch for signs of infection, cautions the Mayo Clinic. Signs of infection include fever, redness, swelling and oozing. If you suspect an infection, contact your doctor at once.
Step 5
Give scarring from burns a chance to subside, especially if the scar is fresh. The AAD states that scars that you can't bear to look at after three months may eventually heal if you simply give them more time. The AAD indicates that some scars resolve without need for treatment after six to 18 months.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult with a dermatologist if burn scars remain. The AAD notes there are many in-office treatments that can reduce the appearance of scars, although burn scars that cover a large part of the body may require a surgical procedure in which a hospital stay is entailed. Thermal burns are the most common type of burn, says the Nassau County Fire Fighters Burn Center Foundation, and may be the result of a house fire, space heater accident or playing with matches.
- Third-degree burns are serious and should never be self-treated. The skin may have a charred appearance, says the Mayo Clinic, or look dry and white. If someone you know has third-degree burns, call for emergency services and follow the steps in the Resources link.
Things You'll Need
- Clean sterile gauze
- Cool compress (optional)
Member Comments