Cooling a burn effectively reduces burning pain.
How to Cool a Burn for Pain Relief
According to the provided reference, here's how to reduce burning pain:
- Cool running water: Hold the burned area under cool, not cold, running water for 10 to 20 minutes. This method helps to alleviate the pain and also cools the skin, which can reduce further damage.
- Cool, wet cloth: If running water isn't available or the burn is on the face, apply a cool, wet cloth to the affected area until the pain subsides.
Here's a table summarizing the key steps:
| Method | Duration | Instructions | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cool running water | 10-20 minutes | Hold burned area under cool running water. | Most effective for burns that can be submerged. |
| Cool, wet cloth | Until pain eases | Apply a cool, wet cloth to the burn. | Suitable for facial burns or areas not easily submerged. |
Key takeaways:
- Avoid ice: Do not use ice directly on the burn, as it can further damage the skin. The goal is to cool, not freeze, the burn.
- Gentle approach: Handle the burn gently. Do not rub or scrub the area while cooling it.
These methods work by reducing the skin temperature, which helps to relieve pain and prevent further damage.
