Cool the burn under cool running water for 20 minutes
Remove rings, watches, belts, or tight clothing near the burn before swelling starts
Cover the burn with a clean, nonstick dressing or clean, dry cloth
Use sterile gauze or a burn dressing if available
Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or aloe vera to intact skin
Keep the burn clean and dry
Take pain relievers as directed (ibuprofen or acetaminophen)
Change the dressing daily or if it becomes wet or dirty
Protect the burn from sun exposure with clothing or bandaging
Do not apply ice
Do not use butter, oils, or toothpaste
Do not pop blisters
Do not peel off stuck clothing or fabric
Do not apply creams or ointments that contain numbing agents
Seek emergency care for burns that are large, deep, or on face, hands, feet, genitals, or major joints
Seek urgent care for chemical or electrical burns
Seek urgent care if the burn is more than a few inches wide, has white/charred/leathery areas, or you cannot move the affected area
Seek care if there are signs of infection (increasing redness, swelling, worsening pain, pus, fever, red streaks)
Seek care if numbness occurs or if pain is not controlled with over-the-counter medication