If you have ever suffered from a severe case of sunburn, or if you have touched a hot pan or iron, you are probably aware of the intense pain and discomfort even mildly burnt skin can cause. On a medical scale, burns can be rated in three degrees. There are first degree, second degree and third degree burns. Burnt skin treatment methods vary, depending on the severity of the burn, as well as its cause. It is possible to treat first degree burns at home, as they are usually milder. However, in order to treat second and third degree burns, medical assistance is required, as blistering, peeling of the skin and large wounds cannot be treated at home. Therefore, before you try to treat burnt skin, it is important to understand the degree and the severity of the burn.
Home Remedies for Burnt Skin
Given below are some home remedies for burnt skin, of the first degree:
• Diluted vinegar is one of the best ways to treat burnt skin. Cover the area of the burn with a cloth that has been soaked in diluted vinegar. This is a great way to soothe the pain. In case the pain rises again, the compress needs to be changed for a fresh one.
• Lavender essential oil is good first aid for burns, as it is an effective antiseptic as well as a painkiller, which promotes rapid healing. It also reduces scarring in the effected area. If lavender is applied to the burn immediately, it will prevent scarring completely. If the burn covers a larger area, lavender oil should be applied to the burn, with a piece of gauze or cloth.
• The fresh sap found in a piece of a fleshy Aloe Vera leaf should be applied directly in the burnt skin, as it has tissue healing properties.
• Make a paste of cotton-ash, by burning a piece of a pure white cotton fabric. Mix the ash in some olive oil, to create a thick paste and apply it on the burned skin. Cover the skin with some cling wrap and leave it that way for a while. This should get rid of the pain in a few minutes. In case the pain returns, a fresh poultice may need to be used. This is one of the best ways to treat burnt skin.
• It is possible to treat sun burnt skin, by applying some cold milk on the area. Alternately, make a paste using oatmeal and purified water and apply it on the burn till it dries, before washing it off.
However, in case you do not see any relief in the pain, or if the burnt skin begins to hurt more than before, please seek professional medical assistance, without any further delay.