How to Treat a Mild Burn

Burns are one of the most common household injuries. Severe burns should be treated by a doctor, but mild burns can be treated at home.

Things You'll Need

• Cool water
• Burn gel or aloe vera
• Clean dressing
• Ibuprofen or acetaminophen

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Run cool tap water over the burn for at least 5 minutes. Do not use very cold water or ice. If the burned area is on the hand or foot, fill a bowl with cool water and allow the burn to soak.

• 2

  Dry the burn gently by patting, not rubbing. Apply aloe vera gel or a soothing burn gel to the area. Burn Jel is a product made especially for burns that contains lidocaine to reduce pain.

• 3

  Apply a clean, loose dressing to keep the burn covered during the healing process. Do not wrap the burn tightly.

• 4

  Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain and swelling.

• 5

  Call your doctor if you notice any severe redness or streaking.