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Burns and scalds

1 sourceEvery line checked against its source

In short

Burns and scalds can often be treated at home if they're small.

Worth knowing1

  • Small burns and scalds can often be treated at home and can take around 2 weeks to heal.

    NHS website

What helps3

  • Hold the burn or scald under cool running water for 20 minutes.

    NHS website
  • Remove any clothing or jewelry near the burn, but do not remove anything that is stuck to it.

    NHS website
  • If the area becomes itchy and dry as it heals, a moisturizing ointment can help.

    NHS website

What to avoid1

  • Things to avoid: do not put any creams, oils or butter on burns or scalds; do not use bandages or sticky dressings to cover a burn or scald; do not burst any blisters.

    NHS website

Get help right away if1

  • Call 911 or go to the emergency room if a burn or scald is very large or deep, is on your face, genitals or bottom, or was caused by an acid, a chemical or electricity.

    NHS website

Sources

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.

These pages describe what the sources say. They cannot say what is going on with your skin.

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