How to Heal Burns Fast

It is possible to heal a burn quickly, depending on its severity. First-degree burns can usually be treated at home unless they cover large portions of your body, which is considered an extensive trauma. First-degree burns are burns that affect the first layer of skin. The skin will be red and may peel. If the skin blisters, this is considered a second-degree burn. Second-degree burns should be treated by a medical professional unless the blister is small in size. Blisters less than 2 or 3 inches are considered to be minor, even though they are technically second-degree in status.

Things You'll Need

• Cool water
• Clean cloth
• Ointment
• Bandage
• Pain reliever

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Instructions

• 1

  Run cool water on the burn immediately. Do not allow the water to be too cold, as this will shock the burned area. Let the water run until the pain from the burn has subsided. You should also see the redness from the burn subside a bit as well. If you still feel pain or do not have access to running water, put cold water on a clean cloth and use it as a cool compress. Hold the compress on the burn until the burn cools. It is important to cool the burn, so that the burn does not spread or affect the area around it.

• 2

  Dry the burned area gently with a clean cloth. Avoid using clothing or cloths that have been used for anything else since being washed, as this could contaminate the area with excessive bacteria. Pat away any water or fluid that may be forming at the burn site. Apply a burn cream treatment, which is available over the counter at most pharmacies.

• 3

  Wrap the burn in a bandage or with a wrap. Do not use cotton or gauze, as it can leave particles in the burn site and cause irritation. Bandage the wrap tightly, not so that it is uncomfortable, to put pressure on the area to reduce pain and possible swelling. If you notice swelling, elevate the area if possible to reduce blood flow.

• 4

  Do not pick at or touch the burn as it heals. Keep it covered with clean bandages until it forms a protective barrier or scab. To help with pain, use burn cream, aloe vera and pain relievers. Keep air out of the wound as much as possible until the protective barrier forms.