For first- and second-degree burns, no first aid is better than cold water. However, water that is too cold, as well as ice, may irritate the tender skin. Holding the affected area in a container of cold water or under a running tap for at least 5 to 10 minutes can reduce the potential degree of the burn.

Additional treatment for a minor burn is simply to take a mild analgesic and apply a light antibacterial dressing, which allows exposure to the air while disinfecting, protecting, and preventing dryness. Butter, lard, animal fat, and a variety of oils frequently used to treat burns are not recommended; they trap heat in the skin and increase the risk of infection.

Herbal Remedies

Aloe vera To extract the anti-inflammatory gel directly from the plant, carefully slice along the center of the leaf, peel back the leaf edges, and scrape the gel from the inner portion of the leaf. Avoid scraping the rind, which can adulterate the gel with laxative anthraquinones. Apply the gel directly to sunburn and other minor burns; as it dries, it will form a protective layer on the skin and promote healing. The fresh gel is generally more effective than store-bought lotions, which often have insufficient amounts of aloe.

Calendula To make a mildly antiseptic compress, add 1 to 2 teaspoons flower heads to 1 cup boiling water. Steep, strain, and let cool. Apply with a clean cloth. To make a lotion, add freshly crushed calendula flowers to olive oil and let stand overnight. Apply to minor burns only. Commercial lotions containing calendula are also available.