Burns are one of the very common injuries in the home, and there are many suggested and non-prescription home remedies for minor burns.

Indications for use of any burn ointment

In general, some types of creams and ointments are used for burns and open wounds. The doctor or pharmacist prescribes one or more specific types based on the condition of the injured and the degree of the burn:

• A moisturizing burn ointment or cream to moisturize the skin and relieve itching after a burn.
• A burn cream or ointment containing an antibiotic to prevent the risk of infection.

Types of ointment or cream for burning

Burn creams and ointments are composed of many active substances that moisturize the skin, promote wound healing, as well as prevent infection. These active substances include:

1. Beta-Sitosterol

It is a natural substance used to treat burns of all kinds, as the doctor may prescribe it to treat first and second degree burns, whether superficial or deep. It may also be used for third degree burns to isolate the wound, and other substances such as sesame oil and beeswax may be added to it, as in MEBO burns cream.

2. Silver sulfadiazine

Silver sulfadiazine burn cream is used to treat and prevent wound infections and second and third degree burns. It is an antibiotic that helps stop the growth of bacteria and prevent it from spreading to surrounding skin or entering the bloodstream.

This medicine is not to be used for newborn infants less than two months old, and it is contraindicated for pregnant women.

3. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is considered one of the plants with medicinal benefits for treating burns and wounds, and according to one source, there are extensive studies describing its anti-inflammatory properties and promoting the healing of burns. Enhanced wound healing in 27 patients compared to Vaseline gauze.

Note: The healing time of a burn may be about three weeks, and it is likely to itch during the healing period, so it should not be scratched at all, and it is recommended to consult a doctor if the burn is deep and causes scars.

4. Collagenase

Collagenase is an enzyme that breaks down collagen in damaged tissue and aids in the growth of healthy tissue. Burn creams containing this active ingredient are used to promote the healing of burns and sores in adults.

There are a few ointments containing this substance along with other active substances such as chloramphenicol (an antibiotic) as in Iruxol and Skinatra ointment.

When should you visit a doctor?

After cooling the burn, it must be ensured that it is a first-degree burn, and if it is deeper and covers a larger area, you should contact the doctor for advice, as burns are more likely to be infected with tetanus, and you should contact the doctor immediately if any symptoms of infection appear, such as :

• increased pain;
• flushing;
• swelling;
• pus;
• Enlarged lymph nodes.

Tips when applying any burn cream

Here are some tips for minor burns:

• Wash the burn well with running water only, not ice water.
• Apply a thin layer of the cream or ointment as prescribed by your doctor and pharmacist, or as written in the medication leaflet.
• It is recommended to avoid scratching the burn, and applying pressure to it by attaching a piece of sterile non-stick gauze, and gauze should not be used, as it may cause the fibers to fall out because it may be stuck in the burn.
• Consult your pharmacist and doctor about the possibility of taking a pain reliever.