How should a burn be treated?

The most effective way to treat a burn is to cool the affected area gently with running water, as this helps to reduce the temperature of the skin and minimize further damage. It is crucial to continue cooling the burn for at least 10 to 20 minutes to alleviate pain and prevent the burn from worsening. Following this cooling process, covering the burn with a sterile dressing helps protect it from infection and further injury. Using a sterile dressing also promotes a moist healing environment, which can facilitate recovery.

In this context, cooling the burn with running water is preferred over applying ice since direct cold can lead to frostbite and further skin damage. Seeking immediate medical attention may be crucial for severe burns, but it is not the immediate first step for all burn types, particularly when simple first aid can be applied initially. Using herbal ointments or other unverified treatments can introduce irritants or allergens to the burn and is not recommended in first aid practices. Finally, simply doing nothing allows the damage to progress and increases the risk of complications, making it essential to take proactive steps in treating burns.