The term 'burn' doesn't just relate to the burning sensation that occurs with this injury, burns cause skin cells to die which leads to severe skin damage. Learn about the different degrees of burns and the best method for treating burns.
The term 'burn' doesn't just relate to the burning sensation that occurs with this injury, burns cause skin cells to die which leads to severe skin damage. Learn about the different degrees of burns and the best method for treating burns.
What are the degrees of burns?
First-degree burns
Second-degree burns
Second-degree burns can be extremely painful and create more serious skin damage as they include the epidermis and part of the underlying dermis. The burned area is red, swollen and blistered and may become infected if not properly cared for. These burns can often be treated with basic first aid but depending on their location or size may also require medical attention.
Third-degree burns
Fourth-degree burns
Just like any other wound, burns can become infected. Learn how to monitor signs of an infected wound or burn.
Treating burns
Treating burns and scalds using Elastoplast products will help your skin return to a healthy and unimpaired state. Read on for our step-by-step guide for treating first-degree and second-degree burns.
Treating first-degree burns
Typically, first-degree burns recover on their own and do not require special treatment.
- Cool the affected area under running water to relieve the pain.
- Apply Elastoplast Wound Healing Ointment.
- If you have a sunburn, wear loose-fitting clothing for a few days.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Treating second-degree burns
Second-degree burns can be more serious and thus require more care than first-degree burns.
- Move away from the heat source and secure the danger area first. Switch off electrical appliances, fight flames or remove the source before treating the burn.
- Don't remove anything stuck to the skin, such as clothing.
- Cool the wound under running water for 10 to 15 minutes. Cooling the burn with water is known to relieve pain and reduce swelling, as well as preventing blisters.
- Do not apply ice or extremely cold water as it could create further damage and lower the body’s temperature. Ice burns occur when ice or other extremely cold objects contact and damage the skin tissue.
- Use the Elastoplast Wound Spray to clean from bacteria to prevent infections.
- Gently dry the affected area and apply a thin layer of Elastoplast Wound Healing Ointment to support the healing process.
- Cover your burn with an appropriate plaster or a sterile compress to protect it from external influences.
Many second-degree burns will heal within a week or two if kept clean and cared for. If it’s a severe third-degree burn, caused by chemicals or larger areas are affected, you need instant medical attention.
Never put fat or butter onto a burn. When in doubt, seek medical advice.
Should you cover a burn or let it breathe?
How long should you keep a burn covered?
Dressings should be changed immediately if the wound starts to smell or become painful. Seek medical assistance if the burn hasn't healed within two weeks.
How to treat a burn blister
Can I put a plaster on a burn blister?
Yes, if a burn blister has developed you can cover this with a loose dressing or plaster. However, be careful not to pop your burn blister because this helps prevent infection. If the blister does break, then clean the area carefully with Elastoplast Wound Spray.
Preventing burns
Fortunately, many burns can be prevented. Most of them happen in the heart of the home – the kitchen. These simple tips can protect you and your family:
- Always stay in the kitchen while food is cooking. Don’t get distracted by phone calls, someone calling from another room, etc.
- Wear protective oven gloves when taking something out of a hot oven.
- Turn pot and pan handles toward the back or centre of the oven so that they cannot be knocked over, because steam can easily scald your wrists and hands.
- Place hot liquids like soup, coffee or tea away from the edges of worktops and tables so that children cannot tip them over.
- Keep items such as dish towels, plastic bags, and long sleeves away from the heating surface.Never cook while holding a child or pet.
- Keep small children and pets away from the front of the oven.
- Never warm baby bottles in the microwave; they may heat unevenly and can burn your baby’s mouth.
- Place a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen.
- Test smoke detectors once a month.
Learn more about safety in the kitchen.
For further information about Elastoplast products, please contact us at consumer.relations.uk@beiersdorf.com