Most minor burns can be safely treated at home with cool water, antibiotic ointment, and a sterile bandage. However, knowing when to seek urgent care is important for preventing complications like infection.
If you don’t know what to do for first-degree burns or are unsure whether you need medical attention, visit Alamo City Urgent Care for minor burn treatment and same-day care.
What Is a Minor Burn?
Sunburns and small scalds are typically considered minor burns. These are first-degree, superficial burns that only impact the outermost layer of skin (e.g., the epidermis). The affected areas are often red, swollen, and painful.
Common Causes of Minor Burns
Minor burns are commonly caused by the following:
- Fire
- Hot liquid or steam
- Hot metal or glass
- Electrical currents
- UV rays from sunlight or tanning beds
- Radiation
- Acids, lye, paint thinner, or gasoline
Symptoms and Severity Levels
First- and second-degree burns are typically considered minor when they are small, superficial, and only affect the outer layers of skin.
First-degree burns usually cause:
- Redness
- Pain
- Itching
- Swelling
- Warmth to the touch
- Peeling or flaking
Second-degree burns generally have the same symptoms as first-degree burns, plus:
- Blisters
- Pus-filled blisters
- White or discolored skin
- More intense pain
How to Treat Minor Burns
Most minor burns can be safely treated at home.
Seek immediate medical care for burns near the eyes, nose, mouth, buttocks, genitals, or a joint, and call 9-1-1 for all major burns.
First Aid Steps for Minor Burns
- Hold the affected area under cool (not cold) water for 10-15 minutes. Use a cool, damp cloth if needed.
- Quickly and gently remove tight items (e.g., rings or clothing) from the burned area before it swells.
- Avoid popping blisters. If a blister breaks, clean the area with mild soap and water to prevent infection.
Home Remedies for Minor Burn Relief
- After the burn is cooled, apply antibiotic ointment, aloe vera, or pain relief gels. Cover the area with a sterile bandage to prevent over-drying and lower your risk of infection.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, and ensure your tetanus shot is up to date.
When to Seek Urgent Care for a Minor Burn
If symptoms worsen, a large blister forms, signs of infection appear, or you aren’t sure what to do with a minor burn, seek immediate medical care to prevent complications.
Best Treatment Options for Minor Burns
Over-the-Counter Medications and Topical Ointments
A triple antibiotic ointment, like Neosporin, is the best over-the-counter topical ointment for minor, uncomplicated burns. Other treatments include bacitracin, polypore, or petroleum jelly.
Medical Treatment for Minor Burns
If you have debris stuck in your burn, notice worsening symptoms, like large blisters or signs of infection, or need guidance on minor burn care, seek urgent minor burn treatment at Alamo City Urgent Care.
Our healthcare professionals are trained to provide the best treatment for minor burns, including rapid evaluation, expert wound cleaning, sterile dressing, pain relief, and after-care instructions, including proper wound care.
Healing Process and Recovery Tips
To prevent delay and ensure proper healing, follow these tips:
- Replace bandages as often as needed to keep the burn area clean and dry
- Re-apply a thin layer of ointment when replacing the bandages
- Avoid sun exposure
- Avoid popping or breaking blisters
- Avoid itching
- Take over the counter pain medicine as needed, following the directions on the bottle
Minor burns can take up to three weeks to heal.
Preventing Minor Burns
Safety Tips at Home and Work
Keep you and your family safe from minor burns at home by prioritizing the following safe practices:
- Always use oven mitts
- Keep hot liquids away from counter edges
- Maintain a ‘kid-free zone’ around stoves, ovens, and grills
- Maintain proper appliance care and storage
Practice workplace safety to guard against minor burns:
- Follow all safety protocols
- Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling hot materials or chemicals
- Avoid distractions
- Report safety hazards to your supervisor right away
Best Practices for Handling Heat and Chemicals
Always tie back loose hair and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling hot materials or chemicals. This may include:
- Safety glasses
- Lab coats
- Gloves
- Closed-toe shoes
Knowing the potential hazards of the chemicals you’re handling and following all safe handling procedures is essential for maintaining workplace safety.
How to Protect Sensitive Skin After a Burn
Once the burn is cooled and properly cleaned, apply a thin layer of unscented, fragrance-free ointment or lotion to keep the skin protected and moisturized. Wrap the burn in a dry, sterile dressing to keep it clean and dry.
Why Choose Alamo City Urgent Care for Minor Burns?
At Alamo City Urgent Care, we provide high-quality treatment for minor burns and a wide range of minor injuries and illnesses. With on-site diagnostic lab and imaging services, we offer same-day results for faster, more accurate medical treatment.
We welcome walk-ins from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays.
