Behind the Burn: How to Treat Minor to Moderate Burns at Home
By Rebecca, Wound Care Provider at RegenX Wound Care
Burns happen when we least expect them—hot pans, curling irons, spilled coffee, or even just too much sun. And in the moment, it’s easy to panic or reach for old advice that could actually make things worse. At RegenX Wound Care, we treat all kinds of wounds, including burns, and we know just how important it is to start the right care immediately—especially for burns that fall into that tricky “not too bad, but not so minor” category.
So, let’s break down the best way to treat minor to moderate burns at home, and when to seek professional care.
Not All Burns Are the Same
First, it helps to understand the difference between burn types:
First-degree burns affect only the outer layer of skin. Think sunburns—red, warm, and painful, but no blisters.
Second-degree burns go deeper and may include blisters, swelling, and more intense pain.
Third-degree burns are serious medical emergencies. The skin may appear white, charred, or leathery, and you should call 911 or head to the ER immediately.
This blog focuses on first- and mild second-degree burns—the kind you can often manage at home with the right care.
The First 15 Minutes Matter Most
The best thing you can do right after getting burned? Cool the area under clean, cool (not cold!) running water for at least 10 to 15 minutes. This helps lower the skin temperature and prevents deeper damage.
What not to do: Don’t apply butter, oils, toothpaste, or ice. These can actually trap heat or damage the tissue further.
How to Treat a Minor Burn at Home
Once the area is cooled:
Clean gently with mild soap and water. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Do not pop any blisters. They act as your body’s natural bandage and protect against infection.
Apply a thin layer of ointment like aloe vera or antibiotic cream.
Cover with a sterile, non-stick bandage to keep it protected and moist.
Change the dressing daily and monitor for signs of infection.
Moist wound healing is key—keeping the wound hydrated and protected helps your skin regenerate faster and reduces scarring.
When to Call for Help
Seek medical care if:
The burn is larger than 3 inches
It’s on the face, hands, feet, or genitals
There are signs of infection: increased pain, pus, swelling, or fever
The wound doesn’t start to improve in a few days
We treated one patient, Lisa, who burned her arm while cooking. She waited too long to get help, thinking it would heal on its own. By the time we saw her, the burn was infected and painful. With proper care—including antimicrobial dressings and regular monitoring—she made a full recovery. But earlier care would’ve made it easier.
We Bring Wound Care to You
At RegenX Wound Care, we provide advanced, physician-led wound care in the comfort of your home. We currently serve patients throughout Arizona and California, helping them recover from burns, ulcers, surgical wounds, and more—with expert care and a personalized approach.
If your burn isn’t healing, or you’re not sure what the next step should be, don’t guess. Let our team help.
Visit regenxwounds.com to learn more or schedule a visit today.
💬 Bonus Tip: Prevent Future Burns
Always test hot liquids before handling
Use oven mitts, not towels
Never leave cooking unattended
Keep water heater settings below 120°F
Use sunscreen and avoid peak sun hours
RegenX Wound Care
We don’t just treat the wound. We treat the person behind it.