Hot Water Burns: Treatment, First Aid & Healing

Hot water burns can be extremely painful and just as damaging as fire burns. Unless the burns are minor, it is imperative to contact a doctor or emergency-care expert for the most efficient treatment options. The best at-home treatment is simply cold running water. Avoid popping blisters, which can lead to scarring. With proper treatment, your hot water burn should heal within a few days.

Things You'll Need

• Gauze
• Cold compress

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Instructions

• 1

  Immediately place your hot-water burn under cold running water for at least 15 minutes.

• 2

  Elevate the burned area immediately to minimize swelling. Keep the area elevated for at least an hour.

• 3

  Gently wrap the burned area with gauze. Place a cold compress over the gauze to alleviate pain and swelling. Make sure the gauze is slightly loose.

• 4

  Refresh the gauze wrap at least once a day. For a first-degree or minor burn, you should be able to remove the wrapping after a day or two.