From burns to cuts, kitchen accidents happen, and they may be more likely as you cook for holiday gatherings. how to treat a burn
Treating those injuries quickly and effectively can help begin the healing process and may reduce scarring, according to a skin expert at the American Academy of Dermatology.
“Whenever your skin is injured — whether by accident or from surgery — your body works to repair the wound. As your skin heals, a scar may form, as this is a natural part of the healing process,” according to Dr. Lindsay Strowd, associate professor and interim chair of dermatology at Wake Forest School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, N.C.
RELATED: 3 Surprisingly Common Kitchen Injuries & How To Avoid Them how to treat a burn
How to treat scars at home
“The appearance of a scar often depends on how well the wound heals,” she said in an academy news release. “If you have minor cuts or scrapes, you can help reduce the appearance of a scar by properly treating the injury at home.”
You May Also Like
First-degree burns
First-degree burns can occur after accidentally touching a hot stove or oven or from a mishap with holiday decorations. This only involves the top layer of skin, unlike the more severe second or third-degree burns.
You may experience mild swelling and your skin may be red and painful.
“If you get a minor, first-degree burn, it’s important to treat it right away,” Strowd said. “Not only can a first-degree burn be very painful, but it can leave a scar if not properly treated.”
Start by cooling the burn by immersing it in cool tap water or applying cold, wet compresses until the pain subsides.
You May Also Like
Do not apply ointments, toothpaste, butter or topical antibiotics to the burn. Instead, use petroleum jelly two to three times daily, Strowd recommended.
Cover the burn with a nonstick, sterile bandage. Do not pop any blisters that may form. Let them heal while
