What is the recommended treatment for minor burns?

The recommended treatment for minor burns involves cooling the burn with running water and then covering it with a sterile dressing. This approach is beneficial for several reasons.

First, cooling the burn helps to reduce the temperature of the skin, which can alleviate pain and minimize tissue damage. Running water is preferred because it can continuously provide cooling, unlike other methods that might not effectively reduce the heat of the burn. This cooling process should be done for at least 10-20 minutes for optimal effect.

Once the burn has been cooled, covering it with a sterile dressing protects the damaged skin from infection, as it creates a barrier against contaminants in the environment. A sterile dressing also helps retain moisture, which can aid in the healing process.

Other suggested treatments, such as applying ice directly to the burn or using ointments immediately after the injury, can cause further damage or irritation to the skin. Leaving the burn exposed can increase the risk of contamination and delay healing, making coverage with a sterile dressing a key part of effective treatment.