Burn gel offers immediate cooling and soothing relief for minor burns, providing a convenient first-aid option. It dissipates heat from injured skin, reducing pain and preventing further tissue damage. This makes it a valuable addition to any first-aid kit.
Understanding Burn Gel and Its Appropriate Uses
Burn gel, also known as hydrogel, is a water-based solution. Its high water content allows it to draw heat away from the skin through evaporation, which cools the burned area and reduces discomfort.
It is suitable for minor burn injuries, specifically first-degree and superficial second-degree burns. First-degree burns affect only the outermost layer of skin, causing redness, mild swelling, and pain. Superficial second-degree burns involve the outer and underlying layers of skin, resulting in redness, pain, and blistering without extensive broken skin. Burn gel can be particularly useful when cool running water is not immediately available or practical for prolonged cooling, such as in remote settings or during mass casualty events.
However, burn gel is not appropriate for all types of burns. It should not be used on deep third-degree burns, which damage all layers of skin and may appear white, leathery, or charred, often with little pain due to nerve damage. Similarly, avoid using it on burns that cover a large body area, have extensively broken skin, or involve large blisters. Chemical or electrical burns also require different immediate medical interventions. These more severe or specialized burn injuries necessitate prompt professional medical attention.
Applying Burn Gel
Before applying burn gel, ensure your hands are clean to prevent introducing bacteria to the injured area. If possible, cool the burn under cool (not cold) running water for 10 to 20 minutes immediately after the injury. If running water is not accessible, burn gel can serve as an alternative for initial cooling.
Once cooled or if water is unavailable, apply a generous layer of burn gel directly to the affected area. The gel should cover the burn completely. Do not rub the gel into the skin, as this can cause further irritation.
After applying the gel, the burn can be loosely covered with a non-stick sterile dressing or clean cling film to protect it from contamination. Avoid wrapping it too tightly, which could restrict circulation. Reapplication of the gel may be necessary every 2-4 hours, especially if pain persists or the gel has been absorbed.
After Application and Seeking Medical Attention
After applying burn gel, expect a continued cooling sensation and pain relief. The gel also protects the area from external contaminants. Monitor the burn for any changes in its appearance or your overall condition.
Seek immediate medical attention if you observe signs of infection, which can include increasing redness, swelling, pus-like discharge, worsening pain, or a foul odor coming from the burn. A fever (38°C or higher) also requires medical evaluation. If the burn does not show signs of healing within a few days or if pain intensifies after initial improvement, seek professional medical advice.
Medical attention is also necessary for burns located on sensitive areas such as the face, hands, feet, joints, or genitals, regardless of their apparent severity. Burns that are larger than your palm, or those that cause blisters larger than your little fingernail, should also be assessed by a healthcare professional. Prompt medical evaluation helps prevent complications and ensures proper healing.