What should I do for a minor burn?

Concerns & risks

You were trying to take something out of the oven and touched the hot rack.

Ice and butter are myths that can make it worse.

Causes & evidence

Minor burns can be cooled with running water. If symptoms are severe, sudden or getting worse, contact a doctor or emergency services.

What to do

1. Run cool (not ice) water over it for 10 minutes or so.
2. Remove rings or tight items.
3. Cover loosely with clean bandage.
4. Seek care for large, deep or face/hand burns.

Common mistakes: Common mistakes: using ice, butter or oils. Cool the burn under cool running water. Cover loosely with a clean bandage. Seek care for large, deep or face, hand or genital burns. Remove rings or tight items near the burn before it swells. Don't pop blisters; they protect the skin underneath. An over-the-counter pain reliever can help if it's safe for you. Watch for signs of infection, and get care if the burn is bigger than your palm, white or charred, or caused by chemicals or electricity.

Speed Man tip: Skip butter and ice.

Wrap-up: Cool water. Cover loosely. Big burns need care.