Using Aquaphor on Healed Burns
Yes, Aquaphor (petrolatum-based ointment) is safe and appropriate to use on a recently healed burn to maintain skin hydration and support continued healing. 1, 2
Application on Healed Burns
Once a burn has fully re-epithelialized (healed), petrolatum-based products like Aquaphor can be applied to keep the skin moisturized and protected. 1, 2
The American Heart Association recommends petrolatum or petrolatum-based antibiotic ointment as first-line treatment for open partial-thickness burns, and this same principle extends to the post-healing phase for maintaining skin barrier function. 2
Research demonstrates that petrolatum-based products promote faster re-epithelialization (mean 6.2 days vs 7.8 days with silver sulfadiazine) and are effective for wound healing without increasing infection risk. 3
Important Safety Considerations
The FDA label for petrolatum products specifically warns "do not use on deep puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns" - this refers to active, unhealed serious burns, not healed burn sites. 4
For external use only; avoid getting the product in eyes. 4
If the healed burn area shows signs of breakdown, infection (increasing redness, warmth, purulent drainage), or worsening condition, stop use and seek medical evaluation. 4
Clinical Context
Petrolatum-based ointments have been shown equivalent or superior to antibiotic ointments for wound healing, with the added benefit of avoiding allergic contact dermatitis risk associated with topical antibiotics. 5
In a study of skin graft dressings, Aquaphor Gauze demonstrated significantly superior outcomes in terms of graft take and reduced patient pain compared to standard dressings. 6
The key distinction is that healed burns (fully re-epithelialized skin) are different from active burn wounds - once healing is complete, petrolatum products serve as emollients to maintain skin integrity rather than as wound treatments. 1, 2