Burns
Burnt yourself? Find out how to take off the heat
– and heal your skin as fast as possible
Burns are nasty, but can happen easily while cooking, having a barbecue or when working with fire. Find out all you need to know about burns and how you can treat them effectively.
First degree (superficial) burns: these are the lightest degree of burns you can suffer from, and they affect only the epidermis. The burned area is red, slightly swollen, painful, dry, and without blisters. Mild sunburn is an example. Long-term tissue damage from these burns is rare.
Second degree burns: these involve the epidermis and part of the underlying dermis layer of the skin. Often scald injuries or flames cause them. The burn appears red, blistered, swollen and painful.
HOW DEEPLY IS YOUR
SKIN AFFECTED?Third degree burns: third degree burns destroy the epidermis and the dermis and may also even damage the underlying subcutaneous tissue, bones, muscles and tendons. The burn site appears white or charred. There is no sensation in the area since the nerve endings are destroyed.
Never put fat or butter onto burns or remove anything that is stuck to the skin, such as clothing. When in doubt, ask for medical advice.
Even for first and second degree burns you should seek medical advice if the burned area is large or if after initial pain relief the burned area again shows signs of infection such as redness, heat, swelling, pain, itching or burning.
Further, medical attention is necessary if a child is burned, if the burn is on sensitive parts of the body e.g. on the face, or if you have any questions or concerns.
For third-degree burns you should always seek medical attention immediately.
Always read the label. Follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your healthcare professional.
How to prevent burns – some safety tips
Fortunately, many burns can be prevented. Most of them happen in the heart of the home - the kitchen. Here are a few tips to help you make your kitchen a safer place.
Although compiled with great care, please note that the tips and advice given on this website by no means substitute medical advice and treatment. If you have or suspect a health problem, consult a doctor and follow medical advice regardless of what you have learned on this website. Always read carefully and follow the instructions for use or the leaflets of our products. For further information about our products, please contact us here.
ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL.