Facebook Instagram Linkedin
Baby First Aid

First Aid for Burns: How to Treat Different Types of Burns at Home

/ Blog, First Aid / By
first-aid-for-burns

Burns are one of the most common injuries that can happen in any home. Whether it’s a minor burn from a hot pan, a curling iron, or even sunburn, knowing how to treat burns quickly can make a big difference in healing and comfort. Burn injuries range in severity, from mild redness to severe damage that requires medical attention. When someone is burned, providing the right first aid can help soothe the pain, prevent infection, and support faster healing.

Treating burns properly can also reduce scarring and make recovery easier. First aid for burns includes cooling the burn, covering it to protect from infection, and knowing what not to do—like avoiding ice or certain home remedies that can actually make the burn worse. Each type of burn, whether a first, second, or third-degree burn, requires different care based on how deeply the skin is affected.

Understanding Different Degrees of Burns

Burns are grouped into three main types, or “degrees,” based on how deeply the skin is affected:

  1. First-Degree Burns: The mildest type, affecting only the top layer of skin. It usually causes redness, minor swelling, and pain, like a mild sunburn.
  2. Second-Degree Burns: This type goes deeper, affecting both the top layer and the layer underneath. It can cause blisters, intense redness, and more pain.
  3. Third-Degree Burns: The most serious type, going through all layers of the skin and sometimes affecting tissues underneath. It may look white, charred, or leathery and may not hurt due to nerve damage.

First Aid Steps for Different Degrees of Burns

First-Degree Burns (Minor Burns)

treating-minor-burns

First-degree burns are the most common and are usually caused by small accidents, like touching a hot pan or spending too much time in the sun. Here’s how to treat a first-degree burn:

  1. Cool the Burned Area: Place the burn under cool (not cold) running water for 10-15 minutes. This helps stop the burning process and reduces pain and swelling.
  2. Apply a Cool, Wet Cloth: If running water isn’t available, use a clean, cool cloth to soothe the area.
  3. Avoid Ice: Never use ice on a burn, as it can cause more damage to the skin.
  4. Cover with a Clean Bandage: Use a sterile, non-stick bandage to cover the burn. This protects it from infection.
  5. Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relief if Needed: For pain, you can take a mild pain reliever like ibuprofen, if approved by an adult.

Second-Degree Burns (Blisters and Severe Redness)

cooling-a-burn

Second-degree burns are more painful and serious. They can cause blisters and more intense pain. Here’s how to care for a second-degree burn:

  1. Cool the Burned Area with Water: Place the burn under cool, running water for at least 15-20 minutes. This helps ease the pain and prevent further damage.
  2. Do Not Pop Blisters: Blisters form to protect the skin and should not be popped, as opening them can lead to infection.
  3. Apply a Loose, Non-Stick Bandage: Use a sterile bandage to cover the burn, but keep it loose to avoid putting pressure on blisters.
  4. Use Pain Relief if Needed: Pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help manage the pain.
  5. Watch for Signs of Infection: If you see redness, swelling, or oozing from the burn, see a doctor, as these can be signs of infection.

Third-Degree Burns (Severe Burns)

Third-degree burns are very serious and need immediate medical attention. These burns affect all layers of the skin and may cause nerve damage.

  1. Do Not Use Water: Don’t apply water, as third-degree burns are too severe for water to help. Cover the burn with a cool, clean cloth or a sterile, non-stick bandage.
  2. Call Emergency Services Right Away: Get medical help immediately. Third-degree burns can be life-threatening, so it’s important to seek professional care.
  3. Do Not Remove Clothing Stuck to the Burn: If clothing is stuck to the skin, leave it there. Trying to remove it can cause more damage.
  4. Keep the Person Calm: Reassure the person and try to keep them comfortable until help arrives.
  5. Elevate Burned Limbs if Possible: If the burn is on an arm or leg, gently raise it above heart level to reduce swelling.

General Burn Care Tips for All Types

burn-care-steps

When to Seek Medical Help

While minor burns can usually be treated at home, some burns require a doctor’s care:

  • Large Burns: Burns that cover large areas or are located on sensitive areas like the face, hands, feet, or joints.
  • Deep Burns or Third-Degree Burns: These need immediate professional treatment.
  • Signs of Infection: Swelling, redness, or discharge from the burn can be signs of infection.

Here are some other resources you may enjoy!

FREE GUIDE: The Nest Quick Reference Reaction Kit.

Get instant access to the:

✅ Allergic reaction quick reference guide

✅ How to spot allergy signs in babies & toddlers (it’s different!)

✅ What to ask the Dr when they ask you to reintroduce a food

FREE GUIDE: The Nest Weaning Blueprint

 

✅ Allergy Food Tracker
Keep calm and organised with a simple tracker that takes the stress out of introducing new foods, no more “did we try peanut yet?” panic.

✅ Choking First Aid + Safe Food Prep Guide
Know exactly what to do in those critical seconds, calm, clear steps that replace fear with confidence.

✅ Top 9 Allergy Foods Guide
Learn which foods matter most and how to prepare them safely, without confusing advice or second-guessing yourself.

Our Nest Food Allergy Membership!

Daily support for mums of babies with food allergy, to guide you in those times between appointments, from a paeds allergy nurse who actually gets it. Online modules & intensive support inside our FB group.

The Nest Feeding & Weaning Membership

Weaning, choking and allergy help in 10-minute chunks, for mums who don’t have time to take another big course. Online modules & daily intensive support inside our  FB group.

Follow for baby & child first aid and allergy info and tips on Instagram & TikTok, all @thenestcpr