How long should petrolatum-based antibiotic ointment be applied to a minor burn?

Duration of Petrolatum-Based Antibiotic Ointment Application for Minor Burns

For minor burns, petrolatum-based antibiotic ointment should be applied with a clean non-adherent dressing for 7-10 days or until complete healing occurs, with dressing changes 2-3 times weekly. 1, 2

Initial Treatment Protocol

• Immediately cool the burn with clean running water for 5-20 minutes to limit tissue damage and reduce pain 1, 2
• Gently cleanse the burn with tap water or isotonic saline before applying any ointment 1
• Apply a thin layer of petrolatum-based antibiotic ointment (such as bacitracin, Polysporin, or triple-antibiotic ointment) directly to the burn 1
• Cover with a clean, non-adherent dressing such as Xeroform (petrolatum-impregnated gauze) or Mepitel (silicone-coated dressing) 1

Application Duration and Frequency

• For first-degree burns: Continue application for 5-7 days or until the burn is healed 1
• For second-degree burns: Continue application for 7-14 days, depending on the depth and size of the burn 2
• Change dressings and reapply ointment 2-3 times weekly to maintain a moist healing environment 1, 3
• Complete healing of second-degree burns typically occurs within 21 days with proper treatment 3

Important Considerations

• Moist wound healing with petrolatum-based products has been shown to enhance reepithelialization and reduce scar formation compared to dry dressings 3
• Despite some evidence against routine use of topical antibiotics for burn prophylaxis, petrolatum-based ointments (with or without antibiotics) are still recommended for small partial-thickness burns managed at home 4
• The American Heart Association recommends petrolatum or petrolatum-based ointment for small burns managed at home 4

When to Seek Medical Attention

• If the burn shows no signs of healing after 7 days 1
• If there are signs of infection (increasing pain, redness, swelling, warmth, or purulent drainage) 1, 2
• For burns involving the face, hands, feet, or genitalia, regardless of size 1, 2
• For burns covering more than 10% body surface area in adults (5% in children) 1, 2

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Do not apply ice directly to burns as this can cause further tissue damage 1, 2
• Do not apply butter, oil, or other home remedies to burns 1, 2
• Do not break or pop blisters as this significantly increases infection risk 2
• Do not discontinue treatment prematurely, even if the burn appears to be healing well 2