Face Burn Treatment

Burns to the face are similar in many ways to burns to other parts of the body. They also pose some special situations and have an increased possibility of complications. This is due to the increased flow of blood in the face and the presence of sensory organs such as the nose, eyes and ears.

Seriousness of the Burns

• Facial burns are generally considered severe. This is due to the possibility of respiratory complications. First responders check the nostrils for singed hairs. In severe cases there may be soot around the nose and mouth and coughing may produce phlegm that includes ash.

Treating Burns to the Face

• Topical antibiotics work well on the face. The tissue of the face contains more blood than other parts of the body, according to MedHelp.org. Antibiotics such as bacitracin and other ointments work well in these situations and help keep the tissue moist.

Burns to the Eyes

• The skin of the eyelid is the thinnest skin on the human body. Burns to this area can be very painful and difficult to treat. Treatment includes placing antibiotic eye drops in the eyes, covering both eyes and keeping the area clean, according to AlphaRubicon.com.

Treating Heat Burns

• Burns of the face due to exposure to heat rather than an exposure to flames can be treated with cool water. The water cools the skin and relieves pain. It also can reduce swelling and blistering.

Surgical Treatment of Burns

• Third-degree burns, those that penetrate the entire thickness of the skin, may require surgical treatment. The burns seldom heal completely and can result in scarring. Surgery can improve the healing process and reduce the chances of scarring.