To heal a minor burn quickly, follow these expert-recommended steps:

Immediate Care

• Cool the burn: Run cool (not cold) water over the burn for about 10 to 20 minutes to reduce pain and limit damage. Avoid ice or very cold water as it can worsen the injury

• Remove tight items: Gently remove rings or jewelry near the burn before swelling starts

Cleaning and Protection

• Clean the burn: Wash gently with mild soap and water to prevent infection

• Apply antibiotic ointment: Use an antibacterial ointment like Bacitracin or Neosporin to protect against infection, then cover with a sterile, non-fluffy dressing or cling film

• Cover the burn: Use a sterile, non-stick bandage to protect the area and reduce pain. Change dressings regularly

Soothing and Healing

• Use aloe vera: Apply pure aloe vera gel directly to the burn to reduce inflammation and promote healing

• Consider honey: Honey has antibacterial properties and can aid healing, but ensure the burn is clean before application

• Pain relief: Over-the-counter painkillers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation

Additional Tips

• Avoid irritants: Do not apply butter, toothpaste, or greasy substances as they can cause infection

• Protect from sun: Keep the burn out of direct sunlight or use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher once healed to prevent further damage and scarring

• Do not pop blisters: Let blisters heal naturally to reduce infection risk

When to Seek Medical Help

• For burns that are large, deep (third-degree or worse), on the face, hands, feet, or genitals, or if signs of infection appear, seek professional medical care immediately

Following these steps can help speed up healing, reduce pain, and minimize scarring for minor burns.