Because burned skin loses moisture quickly and becomes more vulnerable to infection and irritation, early cooling and proper care play a major role in reducing pain and supporting healthy healing.

 

For burns, the first steps are to cool down the area, use local numbing agents, apply topical antibiotics if needed, then protect the area with dressings. Pain medications can be also used to alleviate the pain​

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Pharmacist-recommended products​​ 

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Aloe Vera Gel 

Aloe vera provides instant cooling and soothing relief, making it ideal for sunburns, mild heat burns, and kitchen burns. Its hydrating properties help repair the skin barrier while reducing redness, stinging, and tightness. Alcohol-free formulas are best to avoid further irritation or dryness.

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​Lidocaine Burn Spray

An alcohol-free numbing spray that rapidly relieves stinging and burning pain from minor burns. Lidocaine temporarily blocks nerve signals to the skin, providing quick comfort. Many products include aloe or allantoin for added soothing and moisture support.

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Bactine Max® Pain/Cleansing Spray

A dual-action product that combines lidocaine for fast pain relief with benzalkonium chloride, a gentle antiseptic that helps reduce infection risk. Useful for minor burns, scrapes, and cuts—especially when the skin is exposed or vulnerable to contamination.

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Mebo Burn Cream

A natural, plant-based ointment widely used for first- and small second-degree burns. It contains herbal extracts that promote moisture retention, soothe pain, support tissue repair, and help minimize scarring. It forms a protective barrier that keeps the skin hydrated and reduces discomfort during healing.

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Ibuprofen (Advil®)

A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation associated with burns. Best taken with food to minimize stomach irritation. Useful for deeper or more painful burns that cause ongoing discomfort.

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​Acetaminophen (Tylenol®)

A gentler alternative for pain relief when NSAIDs cannot be used due to allergies, stomach issues, or medication interactions. It helps control discomfort but does not target inflammation.

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Hydrogel Burn Dressings

These moist, cooling dressings provide immediate relief while protecting the burn from friction and contamination. They prevent sticking to sensitive skin and create an optimal healing environment. Some versions include silver, offering additional antimicrobial protection to reduce infection risk.

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Burn Care Kits

All-in-one kits that include burn gel packets, sterile gauze, and non-stick dressings. They’re ideal for home kitchens, workplaces, or travel first-aid needs. These kits allow quick, proper initial care while keeping the affected skin clean and protected.

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Pharmacist recommendations

• For immediate cooling and pain relief:
  Use aloe vera gel, Mebo® Burn Cream, or a lidocaine spray.

• For protection and optimal healing:
  Apply hydrogel burn dressings or use items from burn care kits.

• For pain control:
  Take ibuprofen (preferred for inflammation) or acetaminophen if NSAIDs aren’t suitable.

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Seek medical care if:

The burn is large, deep, caused by chemicals or electricity, heavily blistered, covers the face/hands/genitals, or shows signs of infection (increasing redness, swelling, pus, fever).

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Cuts and wounds