What is the treatment for first-degree burns?

From the Guidelines

First degree burns can be effectively treated at home by cooling the burn with cool running water for 10-20 minutes, followed by gentle cleaning and application of a thin layer of petroleum jelly or aloe vera gel to promote healing and reduce pain. The treatment of first degree burns prioritizes reducing pain and promoting healing while minimizing the risk of infection.

• Cooling the burn with cool running water is a crucial step, as it helps to stop the burning process and reduce pain, as recommended by the 2024 American Heart Association and American Red Cross guidelines for first aid 1.
• After cooling, the area should be gently cleaned with mild soap and water to prevent infection.
• Application of a thin layer of petroleum jelly or aloe vera gel can help keep the skin moist and promote healing, as suggested by the 2024 guidelines 1.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to manage pain and reduce inflammation, as recommended by the 2024 guidelines 1.
• The burn should be covered with a sterile, non-stick bandage applied loosely to protect the area without putting pressure on it, and the dressing should be changed daily.
• It is essential to avoid using ice, butter, or toothpaste on burns, as these can damage tissue or increase infection risk.
• First degree burns typically heal within 7-10 days without scarring, but if the burn covers a large area, affects sensitive areas like the face or genitals, or shows signs of infection, medical attention should be sought promptly, as recommended by the 2024 guidelines 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

Uses first aid to help prevent infection and for the temporary relief of pain or discomfort in minor: cuts scrapes burns Directions adults and children 2 years of age and older: clean the affected area apply a small amount of this product (an amount equal to the surface area of the tip of a finger) on the area 1 to 3 times daily may be covered with a sterile bandage

For the treatment of first degree burns, bacitracin (TOP) can be used for first aid to help prevent infection and for the temporary relief of pain or discomfort in minor burns. The affected area should be cleaned and a small amount of the product applied 1 to 3 times daily. It may be covered with a sterile bandage 2 2.

• Key points:
  • Clean the affected area
  • Apply a small amount of bacitracin (TOP)
  • Cover with a sterile bandage if needed
  • Use 1 to 3 times daily
• Important consideration: For children under 2 years of age, consult a doctor before using bacitracin (TOP) 2.

From the Research

Treatment for First-Degree Burns

• First-degree burns can be caused by thermal injury or UV irradiation (sunburn) 3
• The pathophysiology and therapeutic approach are similar for both types of injuries, although the damage follows a different time course 3
• Initial cooling with water is recommended, followed by the application of aqueous emulsions with small amounts of well-tolerated lipids (O/W emulsions) 3
• Foam sprays and lotions are ideal for treating first-degree burns due to their ease of application and painless nature 3
• Topical corticosteroids are not recommended as their superiority to the vehicle has not been shown 3

First Aid Treatments

• Cold running tap water (between 2 and 15 degrees C) is recommended for first aid treatment of burn injuries, rather than ice or alternative plant therapies 4
• Initial treatment should be directed at stopping the burn process, and superficial (first-degree) burns can be treated with simple first-aid techniques and over-the-counter pain relievers 5

Burn Care and Management

• Burn injuries are considered trauma and require immediate evaluation for concomitant injuries 5
• Prophylactic antibiotics are not indicated for outpatient management and may increase bacterial resistance 5
• Patient education during primary care visits may be an effective prevention strategy for burn injuries, particularly for high-risk groups such as children and older people 5