How to Heal a Burn

February 18th, 2009 by Mike

It is a typical scenario. Either the weather is raining like crazy or there is a snowstorm. We can’t use our outdoor grill. Therefore, we revert to our trusty oven broiler to achieve that desired grill flavor. Most oven broilers have around a 4” space between the heating element and rack. Plenty of room, right?

However, has this happened to you? As you attempt to remove the broiler pan, you accidentally lift the pan, while sliding it out. Your hand has made brief contact with the heating element. Ouch!

There are several ways to remedy burns such as this. Listed below are a few crucial steps that will allow your skin to heal quickly and properly. These should be done immediately after a burn, to expedite the healing process. In addition, it is important to remember these steps apply only for skin burns that cover a small, reddened area with no broken skin or blisters. You should check with your doctor to be certain there aren’t signs of infection from blistered or broken skin.

1. Hold your hand immediately under cold running water, or in a container of cool water, until the pain subsides. Cleanse with a mild soap and water. Gently pat dry.

2. Apply a paste of baking soda. Another option is to use sterile gauze saturated in petroleum jelly. A mild ointment is fine to use, but should only be used for minor burns. Cover with a sterile bandage.

3. Aloe Vera concentrates. If you have an Aloe Vera plant, simply break off a leaf and apply the gel-like liquid directly on the burn. You can also purchase 100% natural Aloe Vera gel, which has the same incredible healing abilities.

It is important to remember that immediate exclusion of air is the greatest relief of burn pain. Once you’ve applied your choice of dressing, keep it covered with a sterile bandage, especially in the first 24 hours.

Keep in mind that the old fallacy of applying butter or any type of grease to your burn is probably the worse thing you can do. It is almost ‘cooking’ your burn further! Antiseptics are another ‘no-no’. They are basically used to prevent infections, which should be determined by your doctor, especially if blisters or broken skin is involved. If your burn is minor, the above steps should be all you need to do. However, always consult your doctor if you suspect your burn is infected, or doesn’t seem to be healing properly.