Applying ice directly to a burn is a common misconception that can worsen the injury. Understanding why ice is harmful and knowing the proper steps to take can significantly improve the outcome of a burn. This article explains why ice should be avoided on burns and outlines appropriate immediate care.
Why Ice Damages Burned Skin
Applying ice directly to burned skin can cause further damage. The sudden, intense cold triggers vasoconstriction, narrowing blood vessels significantly. This reduces blood flow to the injured tissue, depriving it of oxygen and nutrients necessary for healing. The affected area can then experience increased tissue damage and potentially frostbite.
Direct ice application can also induce hypothermia, particularly in children or when a large body surface area is burned. The body’s core temperature can drop rapidly, leading to a dangerous systemic condition. The goal in burn care is to cool the burn gently and steadily, dissipating heat without freezing the tissue. Freezing the injured area impedes natural healing.
Immediate Care for Minor Burns
For minor burns, such as first-degree or small second-degree burns (not larger than about 3 inches in diameter), use cool or lukewarm running water. Hold the burned area under a gentle stream of cool tap water for 10 to 20 minutes. This continuous flow helps dissipate heat and reduce swelling, without causing further constriction of blood vessels.
Before swelling begins, gently remove any jewelry or restrictive clothing from around the burned area. After cooling, loosely cover the burn with a sterile, non-adhesive dressing to protect it from infection and air exposure. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage discomfort. Avoid breaking any blisters, as they provide a natural protective barrier against infection.
Knowing When to Get Professional Help
While minor burns can often be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional medical attention. Any burn larger than approximately 3 inches (7.5 centimeters) in diameter, or involving the face, hands, feet, major joints, or genitals, requires evaluation by a healthcare provider. Burns that appear deep, looking leathery, white, or charred, are considered third-degree burns and need medical care.
Very young individuals, such as infants and toddlers, or elderly adults are more vulnerable to burn complications and should see a doctor for any burn beyond minor superficial ones. Signs of infection, including increasing pain, redness, swelling, or pus, also indicate a need for medical consultation. Additionally, all chemical and electrical burns should be assessed by a healthcare professional due to their potential for underlying tissue damage.