The first thing you should do when you experience a first-degree burn is to remove any heat source and cool the affected area. You can do this by running cool (not cold) water over the burn for up to 15 minutes. Be sure to remove any clothing or jewelry from the burned area so that it doesn’t stick to the skin. Avoid using ice or very cold water, as this can further damage the skin.
Once you have cooled the burn, you can take some over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These medications can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. However, you should always read the label and follow the recommended dose.
Another effective way to reduce the burning sensation is to apply aloe vera gel to the affected area. Aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and promote healing. You can purchase aloe vera gel at most drug stores or health food stores. Be sure to choose a product that is 100% pure and devoid of additives or preservatives.
Honey is also an excellent natural remedy for first-degree burns. It is a natural antibiotic and has anti-inflammatory properties. Applying honey to the burned area can help reduce pain and prevent infection. However, you should use organic honey for best results.
Another effective way to temporarily stop the burning sensation is to use a cold compress. You can use a commercially available cold pack, or simply wrap a bag of frozen vegetables in a towel and place it on the affected area. Cold compresses can help reduce pain and swelling.
If you have access to essential oils, you can also use them to provide relief from the burning sensation. Essential oils such as lavender, tea tree, and peppermint have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help reduce pain and promote healing. To use essential oils, add a few drops to a carrier oil (such as coconut or olive oil) and massage it gently onto the affected area.
In conclusion, there are many ways to temporarily stop the burning sensation in first-degree burns. By removing the heat source, cooling the affected area, taking pain relievers, using natural remedies such as aloe vera and honey, using cold compresses, and using essential oils, you can reduce pain and promote healing. However, if the burn is severe or covers a large area of the body, you should seek medical attention immediately.