If you have a burn blister, it is important not to pop it as this can remove the protective layer of fluid, called serum, and slow down the healing process. Instead, follow these steps for treating a minor burn:
- Place the burned area under running water slightly colder than room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes or until the pain eases. Or put a cool, clean, damp cloth on the burn.
- Be aware that the burned area may swell. Remove tight items, such as rings or clothing, from the burned area as quickly as possible.
- Do not break a blister if its bigger than your little fingernail. If the blister does break, clean it with mild soap and water. Apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover the area with a bandage or gauze.
- Applying moisturizer, aloe vera gel, or other pain relief gels may provide temporary relief. Do not use butter as it retains heat and could be contaminated with bacteria.
- Keep the wound covered with a loose dressing to help it stay clean and decrease pain.
- Ease the pain with an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as Ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen.
- Make sure youve had a tetanus shot within the last 10 years because you can get tetanus through an open wound in the skin.
If your burn has caused a blister, you should get medical attention. The blister will probably remain intact, although some burns units at hospitals follow a policy of deroofing blisters. Deroofing means removing the top layer of skin from the blister. In some cases, a needle may be used to make a small hole in the blister to drain the fluid out. This is known as aspiration and may be carried out on large blisters or blisters that are likely to burst. Your healthcare professional will advise you about the best course of action for your specific case.