When examining the blister, look for signs of a second-degree burn, which include very red skin, weeping from the area, blisters, pain, and even loss of skin. Symptoms of more serious third-degree burns include losing skin layers, dry and leathery skin, charred patches, painless areas where the skin is burned, and areas that look brown, black or white. [2] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Additionally, note the location of the burn, as well as its size. A large burn is often an emergency situation, so a person with a large burn likely needs medical attention.

It’s best to see a medical provider for any burn, even if it’s very small. However, you don’t necessarily need to call for emergency help. Burns to the mouth and eyes caused by chemicals require medical attention no matter what.

Don’t try to remove clothing that seems to be stuck to the skin. Instead, cover up the burn with the clothing attached and seek medical attention. Keep in mind that clothing can quickly adhere to the burnt skin, and only a medical professional should try to remove it at that point. Doing it yourself could send the person into shock. If the burn is chemical, you should still remove the clothing, as long as it’s not stuck to the skin. However, wait until you’ve flushed the area for a few minutes before doing so while still rinsing the area. Otherwise, you can drag chemicals across other areas of the body.

For instance, if you have a ring on and you burn your finger, take the ring off.

You can also use a tub of cool water if you prefer. However, don’t use ice, as that can cause further damage. Hold it under the water for 15 to 30 minutes. If the burn is in a place that you can’t easily put in water, you can apply a washcloth dipped in cool water instead. [8] X Expert Source Mohiba Tareen, MDFAAD Board Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 26 March 2020. [9] X Research source Don’t submerge large areas of the body to treat a large burn, as that could cause hypothermia. [10] X Research source However, you can spray the burn with a showerhead, if one is available. Place the person in the tub with their clothes still on, initially. Then, spray them with cool water from the shower.

This is the same type of plastic wrap you use in the kitchen.

You can also try a virtual visit, which many medical systems offer now. You visit with a doctor using your smartphone or computer so they can view the blister.

Pick a lotion that has a moisturizer or aloe vera. You can also use pure aloe gel to relieve the burning sensation. [14] X Expert Source Mohiba Tareen, MDFAAD Board Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 26 March 2020.

Be gentle when cleaning and bandaging this area, as too much pressure can break the blister. Since this is so difficult to do, your doctor may recommend soaking your burn, rather than trying to rub it clean. However, keep in mind that you should only bandage a burn wound if your medical provider advises you to do so. Bandages can stick to burn wounds, further damaging the skin and causing pain.

Choose a non-stick sterile gauze to minimize the risk of the bandage sticking to the wound. Similarly, get your wound checked by your doctor to see if you need an antibiotic lotion, which will both speed up healing and keep your bandages from sticking to your wound. Apply bandages loosely to avoid breaking the blister. If the blister isn’t broken, you don’t necessarily need to apply a bandage, particularly if there are no raw wounds. However, if the blister is likely to get dirty or will be rubbed by clothing, you should apply a bandage.

Follow the instructions on the back of the bottle for taking pain medication.

You can use a pillow or a foot rest to prop up the limb.

As another option, you can soak the bandage in water if you don’t have saline solution. However, saline is a better option because it is sterile. [21] X Research source Check with your doctor for advice specific to your burn treatment.

If the burn is on your face, wash it twice a day.

Talk to your doctor about the best ointment for your burn.