Superficial burns, stage I & II

How to deal with superficial burns?

Treatment for burns depends on their severity. You can treat superficial and minor partial-thickness burns caused by heat at home. However, seek medical help:

• all deep partial-thickness and full-thickness burns;
• all chemical and electric burns;
• superficial and partial-thickness burns covering an area larger than the palm of your hand;
• burns that cover a joint or are on the face, hands, feet or groin;
• all airway or suspected smoke inhalation burns.
   

Home treatment:

• Begin by flooding your burn with cool (not cold) water for 10 to 30 minutes or until the pain is relieved.
• Don't burst any blisters that form on your burn.
• In case of a superficial and shallow partial-thickness burns, apply a soft silicone dressing with ReSkin technology over the affected area. Covering a partial-thickness burn will reduce pain and speed healing..
• Superficial and shallow partial-thickness burns usually heal within three weeks, with minimal scarring.
   

Note: Ointments or creams may help superficial burns like sunburn, but don't apply them to any deeper burns that have caused a change in your skin color or blisters. Always ask your pharmacist for advice before applying ointments or creams.