Burn Treatment and Scar Prevention After Hot Water Injury

Burned by hot water?

On November 13, I accidentally spilled hot water on my elbow, covering an area slightly larger than a palm.
Immediately after the burn, I submerged my entire arm in cold water (with a little ice) for about half an hour.
Although the pain persisted, after applying Neosporin on the first day, the pain decreased after a while, and by the next day, it was gone.
However, I experienced some discomfort when my skin came into contact with my shirt sleeves, so I could only wear short sleeves.
After November 14, I switched to applying a burn ointment.
Throughout the process, the affected area only showed some redness without any blisters.
I have been trying to avoid getting the area wet while showering, but the redness has not subsided.

How long should I continue applying the ointment? Can I cover it with gauze? What can I do to prevent scarring? Do I need to see a doctor?

cjxuxu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/11/15

Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery

1.
If it is just red, it may be a first-degree burn.

2.
A first-degree burn typically heals in about one week; it is important to protect it from sun exposure, as it is less likely to scar.

3.
For a first-degree burn, ensure proper protection to avoid further injury (such as friction or bruising); sometimes, it may not be necessary to apply ointment.

Reply Date: 2018/11/15

More Info

After experiencing a burn from hot water, it is crucial to follow a proper treatment and care regimen to promote healing and minimize the risk of scarring. Based on your description, it sounds like you have already taken some important initial steps, such as cooling the burn with cold water and applying antibiotic ointment. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to manage your burn and prevent scarring.

Immediate Care and Treatment
1. Cooling the Burn: You did the right thing by soaking the affected area in cold water for about half an hour. This helps to reduce the temperature of the skin and alleviate pain. It is essential to cool the burn as soon as possible after the injury occurs.

2. Cleaning the Area: After the initial cooling, keep the burn clean. Gently wash the area with mild soap and water, avoiding any harsh scrubbing. Pat it dry with a clean towel.

3. Applying Ointments: You mentioned using Neosporin (an antibiotic ointment) initially, which is a good choice to prevent infection. Afterward, you switched to a burn ointment (灼膚星), which is also appropriate. Continue applying the ointment as directed, typically 1-3 times a day, until the area heals completely.

Dressing the Burn
4. Covering the Burn: It is advisable to cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick bandage or gauze. This protects the area from dirt and bacteria, which can lead to infection. If the burn is not oozing and is healing well, you may leave it uncovered to allow it to breathe, but if there is any risk of irritation from clothing, covering it is wise.

5. Changing Dressings: Change the dressing daily or whenever it becomes wet or dirty. This helps to keep the area clean and reduces the risk of infection.

Managing Symptoms
6. Pain and Itching: If you experience pain, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help. For itching, which is common as the burn heals, you can ask your doctor for antihistamines or topical treatments that can alleviate discomfort.

Scar Prevention
7. Moisturizing: Once the burn has closed and is no longer open, you can start applying a moisturizer or silicone gel. These products can help keep the skin hydrated and may reduce the appearance of scars.

8. Sun Protection: Protect the healing skin from sun exposure. UV rays can darken the area and make scars more prominent. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on the affected area when exposed to sunlight.

9. Avoiding Irritation: Wear loose-fitting clothing over the burn site to avoid friction and irritation, which can exacerbate scarring.

Follow-Up Care
10. Monitoring Healing: Keep an eye on the burn for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus. If you notice any concerning changes, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional.

11. When to See a Doctor: If the redness persists beyond a few weeks, or if you have any concerns about the healing process, it’s a good idea to follow up with a healthcare provider. They can assess the burn and provide additional treatments if necessary.

In summary, your immediate care has been appropriate, and continuing with proper wound care, moisturizing, and sun protection will significantly aid in healing and scar prevention. If you have any doubts or if the condition of your burn changes, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

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