What to Put on 2nd Degree Burns: Effective Home Remedies and First Aid Measures
Second degree burns can be quite painful and require immediate attention. These burns affect both the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and the layer beneath it (dermis). While it’s crucial to seek medical help for severe burns, there are several home remedies and first aid measures you can take to alleviate pain and promote healing. In this article, we will discuss what to put on 2nd degree burns and how to care for them effectively.
1. Cool Water Rinse
The first step in treating a 2nd degree burn is to cool the area. Gently rinse the burn with cool (not cold) water for about 10-15 minutes to reduce swelling and numb the pain. This helps to prevent further damage to the skin.
2. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is a well-known natural remedy for burns. Its cooling properties help to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. Apply pure aloe vera gel directly to the burn, and reapply as needed. Make sure to use fresh aloe vera gel from a plant or a high-quality commercial product.
3. Honey
Honey has antibacterial and antiseptic properties that can help prevent infection and promote healing. Apply a thin layer of honey to the burn, and cover it with a sterile gauze bandage. Change the bandage every 24 hours or as needed.
4. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is another natural antiseptic that can help prevent infection. Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil (such as coconut oil) before applying it to the burn. Be cautious, as pure tea tree oil can be harsh on the skin.
5. Compresses and Poultices
For larger burns, you can create a compress or poultice using baking soda or colloidal silver. Mix the baking soda or colloidal silver with water to form a paste, then apply it to the burn. Cover it with a sterile gauze bandage and change it as needed.
6. Sterile Gauze Bandage
Once the burn has been treated with one of the above remedies, cover it with a sterile gauze bandage. This helps to protect the burn from infection and keeps the healing process clean.
7. Pain Relief Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage the pain associated with a 2nd degree burn. Follow the dosage instructions on the label and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
8. Avoid Sun Exposure
Protect the burn from the sun’s harmful rays by covering it with clothing or using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This helps to prevent further damage and promote healing.
Remember, while these home remedies and first aid measures can help alleviate pain and promote healing, it’s essential to seek medical attention for severe burns or if the burn shows signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, swelling, fever, or discharge. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your 2nd degree burn receives the proper care and heals as quickly as possible.
