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Minor burn - first aid - series

Minor burn treatment - run under cool water

Procedure, part 1

To treat a minor burn, run cool water over the area of the burn or soak it in a cool water bath (not ice water). Keep the area submerged for at least 5 minutes.


Minor burn treatment - apply bandage

Procedure, part 2

After flushing or soaking for several minutes, cover the burn with a sterile bandage or a clean cloth. Over the counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may be used to help relieve the pain. Minor burns will usually heal without further treatment.


Related Information

Burns
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Review Date: 5/31/2022  

Reviewed By: Elika Hoss, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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