First-Degree Burn Ointment Recommendation
For first-degree burns, apply petrolatum or petrolatum-based antibiotic ointment (such as triple antibiotic ointment containing bacitracin, neomycin sulfate, and polymyxin B) after cooling the burn with clean running water for 5-20 minutes. 1, 2
Immediate First Steps (Before Ointment Application)
- Cool the burn immediately with clean running water for 5-20 minutes to limit tissue damage and reduce pain 1, 2
- Remove any jewelry from the affected area before swelling occurs to prevent vascular compromise 1
- Clean the wound with tap water, isotonic saline, or antiseptic solution 1
- Administer over-the-counter analgesics such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs for pain control 1, 3
Recommended Topical Agents for First-Degree Burns
Primary recommendation:
- Petrolatum or petrolatum-based antibiotic ointment is the first-line treatment, promoting faster reepithelialization and reduced scar formation 1, 2
- Triple antibiotic ointment (containing bacitracin, neomycin sulfate, and polymyxin B) is specifically recommended 1, 3
Alternative options for home management:
- Honey shows benefit for infection resolution and reduced hypertrophic scarring 2
- Aloe vera may be reasonable for small burns being managed at home 1, 2
Application Protocol
- Apply a thin layer of petrolatum or petrolatum-based antibiotic ointment to the burn wound 2
- Cover with a clean, non-adherent dressing 1, 2
- Change dressing daily or as needed 2
- Monitor for signs of infection including increased pain, redness, swelling, or discharge 1
Critical Pitfalls to Avoid
- DO NOT apply ice directly to burns, as it causes additional tissue damage 1, 2, 3
- DO NOT apply butter, oil, or other home remedies to burns, as these can exacerbate injury 1, 2, 3
- DO NOT use silver sulfadiazine as first-line therapy, as it delays healing and worsens scarring compared to petrolatum-based treatments 2, 3
- DO NOT break intact blisters, as this significantly increases infection risk 2, 3
When to Seek Medical Attention
- Burns involving the face, hands, feet, or genitals require specialized evaluation regardless of size 1, 2, 3
- Signs of inhalation injury (soot around nose/mouth, difficulty breathing) require immediate medical attention 1, 3
- Burns covering >10% body surface area in adults require specialized burn center care 3