"Since second-degree burns are more severe, I recommend a heavier ointment to protect the sensitive or blistered skin," Zeichner says.
After you pop the blister, apply an antibiotic cream and, whatever you do, make sure not to rip any of this skin off. Gently press on the blister to drain the fluid. Using a sewing needle, which should also be sterilized with rubbing alcohol, gently poke the side of the blister, Zeichner says. To do this, grab some rubbing alcohol and sterilize the blister and surrounding skin. "If the blister is large, and you feel up to it, you can try to drain it," says Zeichner.
You have to be especially careful with the blisters. But as it heals, the experts say it's important to pay closer attention to spot signs of infection. Zeichner recommends Vaseline Intensive Care Advanced Repair Lotion to help seal in moisture.įor a mild second-degree burn, you can treat it pretty much the same way you would a first-degree burn. The remedy? Keep it moist with aloe vera gel or a light petroleum-based lotion. Since a burn disrupts the skin barrier, it can become extra dry and sensitive as it heals. The importance of preventing infection has been recognized in organized burn care since it’s inception and has followed recurring themes through the years.
Some antibiotic ointments can cause an allergic reaction. Infection in the burn patient is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality and remains one of the most challenging concerns for the burn team. The ointment does not need to have antibiotics in it. You may put a thin layer of ointment, such as petroleum jelly or aloe vera, on the burn. "Instead look for gentle, hydrating, soap-free cleansers like Dove Deep Moisture Nourishing Body Wash that effectively cleanse the skin and hydrate at the same time - without causing more damage to the outer skin layer."įinally, you want to make sure to keep scorched skin moist. If it is a minor burn: Clean the burn gently with soap and water. To safely clean your burn stay away from any exfoliating cleansers and harsh soaps, which have an alkaline pH and can be irritating, Zeichner explains. "But overly scrubbing the skin, which is already weakened from a sunburn, can cause more harm than good." "Especially after leaving the beach, you may want to scrub the skin to remove dirt, sand, oil, and sunscreen," he explains. The key word here though is gently, Zeichner stresses. Gently cleansing your skin after a first- or second-degree burn is also important.