Airbag Burns: Identification, Severity, and Healing

Burns caused by the hot air used to inflate airbags can lead to rashes or scarring. While most burns are not serious, it is possible to receive a second-degree burn that can take months to heal. If you've been in a car accident, the burns you received on your hands, arms and face are easy to recognize, but should fade over time.

Instructions

How to Identify Airbag Burns

• 1

  Airbag burns appear quickly after an accident. If the skin on your face, arms or hands feels hot or begins to change color, you've probably been burned by the airbag.

• 2

  Airbag burns vary in size, depending on the temperature of the air inside the airbag and the amount of skin that was exposed to the intense heat.

• 3

  Check bruises, burns and other discolorations to see if medication will be necessary to help them heal. Most burns require over-the-counter medications and bandages. Airbag burns usually heal on their own without medical assistance from a physician.

• 4

  Monitor all burns until they heal. If you notice discoloration or scarring, use Vitamin E or a skin-lightening product once the burn has healed to reduce the appearance of the scar.

• 5

  Airbag burns should fade away gradually. If you have large scars or large patches of discoloration, you should visit a physician, who may recommend skin grafting or medication to help cover imperfections.