Common Myths About Skin Burns

Have you ever seen your grandparents apply ice on a burn wound? Do people around you rely on home remedies for curing burns? There are many myths surrounding the right way to treat a burn. A skin burn is a serious issue and needs medical attention. This article talks about methods of preventing your skin from burning. You will also read about taking a life-saving course, like first aid for burns and its importance.

How to prevent skin burn from happening

Your skin is a vital organ in the human body. It protects the nerve endings from external exposure and damage. Even though the skin has seven layers, it is sensitive. Direct sunlight, pollution, and extreme heat cause damage to the skin. You should avoid getting a skin burn by following the steps below:

1. Wear Sunscreen: Wearing sunscreen is the most effective way to prevent sunburns. You should apply sunscreen regularly and reapply it every two hours. Always remember to use sunscreen when you head to the beach. 
2. Wear Protective Clothing: Wear clothing that covers your skin, such as long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and a hat. These clothes protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. 
3. Avoid Peak Hours: Avoid being outside during peak sun hours (10 am-4 pm) when the sun is strongest. 
4. Seek Shade: Find shade whenever possible when outdoors. Sitting in the shade can help prevent sunburns. 
5. Wear Sunglasses: Wear sunglasses with UV protection to protect your eyes from the sun’s rays. 
6. Drink Water: Make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. It will help keep your skin from becoming dehydrated and sunburned. 
7. Check the UV Index: Check the daily UV index before going outdoors. It will help you determine the strength of the sun’s rays and how long you should stay out in the sun.
8. Fire safety: You should avoid open flames to avoid getting burned. Ensure you install robust fire safety protocols in your house. 

Some common myths about skin burns

Children often get burned by candles and open flames. They also have delicate skin that burns quickly under the sun. You should head to the doctor if your child or loved one experiences a severe burn. There are many myths about treating burn wounds, like some mentioned below:

1. People say applying butter to a burn will help it heal. On the contrary, butter has no healing properties and increases the risk of infection.
2. Some people may ask you to apply ice to a burn. But ice can cause further damage to the skin and should be avoided. 
3. You should pop a burn blister. Popping blisters can lead to infection, and you should avoid it. 
4. Treating sunburn with over-the-counter lotions. Lotions will not treat sunburns and can even make the situation worse. 
5. People may suggest you treat burns using home remedies. Home remedies such as aloe vera and honey may help soothe the pain, but seeking medical attention for severe burns is essential.

First Aid Tips and Treatment for skin burns at initial stages

Treating skin burns is vital; else, it could lead to infection. If you get a severe burn from a fire, head straight to a hospital. You should follow the first aid for burns tips below as the initial steps.

1. Immediately remove any clothing or jewelry from the burned area. 
2. Place the burnt part under cool water for at least 10 minutes.
3. It helps to apply a cold and damp cloth to the burnt area. 
4. You may need to take a pain reliever. You should only take mild medication unless prescribed by a doctor.
5. Cover the burn loosely with a sterile gauze bandage. 
6. Apply a topical antibiotic cream to help prevent infection. 
7. Seek medical attention if the burn is more significant than 3 inches in diameter or on the face, hands, feet, or genitals.

If you experience a severe sunburn, take some first aid steps to soothe the area. The below steps will help you with a sunburn. 

1. Move out of direct sunlight to cool down the skin. 
2. Take a cool shower or bath to cool the skin. 
3. Apply a moisturizing lotion, such as aloe vera gel, to hydrate the skin. 
4. Do not wear tight clothing over the burnt skin.
5. Seek medical attention if the burn is severe or covers a large body area.

Conclusion

Burning your skin is one of the most painful and discomforting things. If the damage runs deep, it could affect the underlying tissue. Everyone must understand the importance of staying away from fire and applying sunscreen. You could take a course to help someone suffering from a severe burn. The American HealthCare Academy has a comprehensive course. We also cover topics like first aid for burns and wounds. Explore our website and learn more about treating your burnt skin right.