Tips on dealing with Different Types of Skin Burns
Our skin is is vital to our body. It controls the amount of heat exchange between us and our environment, it controls the amount of fluid loss and shields us from infection. For this reason, a burn is not insignificant because it destroys our skin.
While small burns or burns in hands and fingers are not usually problematic, a burn does lead to inflammation. In fact, burns of the face and neck can sometimes swell enough to cause difficulty breathing and restrict blood flow. If you experience symptoms like numbness in the affected area or shortness of breath, seek medical attention at once.
Tips on Treating Hot Water Burns
Hot water burns are usally caused by hot liquids or gases. The injury is usually local and is rarely life threatening. However, young children and people over 65 should seek immediate medical attention because their delicate skin puts them at a higher risk.
If you have experienced minor hot water burns here are the first things that you should do:
*Hold the burned area under cool, running water for 15 minutes.
*Do not apply salves or ointments or pop any blisters.
*Cover the area with dry, sterile gauze.
if you have a severe burn or if the burn occurs in areas such as the face, hands, genitalia or feet:
*Call 911 at once
*Keep the burned area under cool, running water until help arrives
*Do not remove clothing or skin from the burned area
*Keep burned limbs elevated
The above tips are also pertinent if an infant or elderly person is the victim of a burn.
Tips on Treating Frostbite
Frostbite is the consequence of long term exposure to cold objects such as ice or snow. If you or someone you know has developed frostbite you should:
*Find shelter in a warm place
*Use sterile cloth or gauze to bandage the area making sure to separate toes and fingers
*Remove wet or constricting garments
*Keep the victim hydrated with warm liquids
Only once the person has been taken to a permanent, safe location, can the re warming process begin. This may be done by submerging the affected parts in warm, circulating water or by applying warm clothing to the injured areas for 20-30 minutes. Do not attempt this process if you have not reached a secure location because there is the danger of severe damage due to the potential re-freezing thawed extremities.
Ways to Treat Burn Scars
Severe burns will leave scars. There are several treatment options in these cases ranging from creams to surgery.
Since scars become less pliable they do not allow for the normal range of motion. Lotions can help moisturize the scar tissue and help with the dissolution of old scars. In some cases, scar removal through surgical procedures is necessary.
Burn scar treatment can include natural scar treatment in the form of creams like Bioskinrevival that will help you with scar exfoliation. Take a look at rest of our products for scar treatments and other skin problems.
Published February 20th, 2009