Overview

There is no evidence-based research to support the safety and effectiveness of the following home treatment measures, but they may help relieve your burn symptoms.

• Soak a facecloth in water to make a cool compress.
• Add a handful of oatmeal (ground to a powder) to a cool (not ice) bath. Or you can try an oatmeal bath product, such as Aveeno. Do not wash burned skin with harsh soap.
• Use a moisturizer or light powder to smooth areas where skin rubs against skin to prevent chafing.
• Use calamine lotion for itching.
• Cut a raw potato and spread the juice on the burned skin.
• Use chamomile diluted in warm water or brewed into a tea to sponge on the burned skin.
• Try an aloe vera lotion. Avoid creams or lotions that may hold heat inside the skin or may contain numbing medication (i.e. benzocaine or lidocaine).
• If needed to relieve pain, give the person ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as directed. Do not give aspirin to children.
• Offer the person extra fluids for the next two to three days.

Avoid breaking open any blisters, and watch for any signs of a skin infection while using home treatment measures.