Superficial Burns: Care And First Aid
Who has never suffered a burn on their skin? Superficial burns are often the product of minor domestic accidents, especially in the kitchen, such as accidentally touching a hot pan or being hit by a splash of hot oil.
But burns can also be the product of an unprotected afternoon in the sun or contact with a wide variety of objects, such as an iron or exhaust pipe. They are usually extremely easy to treat and do not require specialist medical attention.
However, it is important to learn to distinguish between superficial burns and deep burns. In the first case, there are several topical remedies that can calm the burning and pain they cause.
What are superficial burns?
Different levels of burns
Burns are classified according to the depth of the affected skin layer. We therefore have first, second and third degree burns. According to this classification, the treatment will vary according to the characteristics.
- Most home burns are first degree, meaning the injury is superficial and affects only the outermost layer of the skin.
- Some burns can be second-degree burns, i.e. those in which the first layer of skin, or epidermis, and also the second layer, or dermis, is affected.
- Third-degree burns affect the layer of fat under the skin and are usually more severe. They can cause nerve damage, causing a feeling of numbness. Causes include heat sources such as fire, electricity or chemicals.
Superficial burns typically cause redness and pain. The skin may also appear swollen and blisters may form on the affected area.
There are some basic remedies to keep at home just in case and to intervene in these cases. These are all topical treatments useful for soothing the burning, pain and swelling.
First aid in case of superficial burns
The first thing to do in case of superficial burns is to cool the skin. To do this, you will have to use cold water, never frozen, and in no case ice. Extreme cold could cause more damage to the skin. Then leave the injured area under running water for a few minutes.
Once you are satisfied that the lesion is superficial, you can gently wash the area with soap and water to clean it thoroughly. In case of blisters, it is essential not to squeeze them.
Keep in mind that an open blister can easily become infected, further complicating the condition of the wound. Injured skin should never be covered with dressings that release fibers, as they can stick to burnt skin.
Classic natural remedies such as butter, toothpaste, oil or egg white are not always the best option. It is preferable to apply ointments specifically designed for burns, available on the market in different formulas.
If the pain persists, you can also take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to ease the discomfort. Rapid intervention in these cases makes it possible to calm the pain and its possible consequences.
Aloe vera cream
Aloe vera has extraordinary healing properties to soothe irritation, swelling and pain. In addition, it is an effective antibacterial. In addition, it is a natural, safe and effective alternative to relieve the discomfort caused by minor burns.
Calendula cream
Calendula cream is a natural and effective treatment to calm the irritation and swelling caused by superficial burns. Contains no artificial colors or fragrances.
Natural ointment for superficial burns
Natural Skin Ointment is an effective and best-selling remedy for treating superficial burns. It is an ointment that does not cause burning or discomfort, gives immediate relief to the skin and helps to regenerate it.
Typically these creams are made with essential oils and other ingredients with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and skin regenerating effects. The effect is extremely positive for the dermis.
Finally, it must be remembered that, in the case of more serious burns, the intervention of a specialized health professional must always be used. He will assess the degree of burn and the most appropriate treatment for the case.
