How to Treat a Superficial Burn

A superficial burn, or first-degree burn, is the least serious of all burns. It's typically caused by "dry heat (fire) or wet heat (steam or hot liquids)," according to Drugs.com. A superficial burn can also be caused by the sun, chemicals and electricity. The burned area usually turns pinkish or red and dry and tender. This type of injury usually heals itself in three to five days. However, you can treat the symptoms of a superficial burn. You should also care for the affected skin to prevent infection.

Things You'll Need

• Washcloth
• Aloe vera cream
• Ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Phone
• Poison Control Center phone number: 800-222-1222

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Instructions

Treating Superficial Burns Caused by Heat

• 1

  Remove any clothing or jewelry that may be on the burned area of skin.

• 2

  Place the affected area under a faucet and run cool water over it until the pain lets up. Or, run cold water on a washcloth, wring it out loosely and apply it to the superficial burn. Cool it with more cold water on a washcloth until the pain eases.

• 3

  Apply aloe vera cream to the affected skin to help relieve the pain and soreness and promote healing. Take ibuprofen to relieve pain and inflammation, or take acetaminophen to relieve pain, recommends Drugs.com's Superficial Burn Care Guide.

Treating Superficial Burns Caused by Chemicals

• 4

  Remove any clothing or jewelry that may be on the burned area of skin.

• 5

  Flush liquid chemicals off the skin by holding the affected area under cool running water for 20 minutes, advises Summit Medical Group. Call the Poison Control Center to seek further advice for proper treatment. Have the chemical container handy for reference during the phone call.

• 6

  Brush dry chemicals off the skin to treat a superficial burn. Don't try to wash it off because water can activate some dry chemicals. Read and follow the first-aid information on the container and call the Poison Control Center.