First-degree burns

Caring for a minor burn

• Use cool cloths on burned areas.
• Take frequent cool showers or baths.
• Apply moisturizing lotions or creams.

  These skin lotions can be used to relieve itching. But don't use them if the burns have fluid weeping from them or have fresh scabs.

  There isn't much you can do to stop skin from peeling after a sunburn—it's part of the healing process. Lotion may help relieve the itching.

• Try other remedies.

  There isn't clear proof that other common remedies are safe and effective, but they may help. For example, you can use an aloe vera lotion or gel, apply calamine lotion for itching, or try an oatmeal bath product, such as Aveeno.

• Try medicine.
  • Using 0.5% hydrocortisone cream on the burned area may help. You will need to check with your doctor first if you need to use the cream for a child younger than age 2 or for use in the genital area.
  • An antihistamine may help stop itching. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Protect burns while they heal.

  Newly healed burns can be sensitive to temperature. Healing burns need to be protected from the cold, because the burned area is more likely to develop frostbite. And a newly burned area can sunburn easily. Protect the new skin from sun exposure for the first year after a burn. You can do this by covering the new skin with clothing, staying in the shade, or using sunscreen.

• Don't smoke.

  Smoking slows healing because it decreases blood supply and delays tissue repair.