Wax burns can be very painful, but don't worry: if the burn was caused by waxing, a candle, or some other type of contact with hot wax, there are several methods you can use to relieve the pain and treat the burn. burn. If there is a minor burn, first cool the affected area and remove the wax residue, then clean the skin, medicate and cover it with gauze.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Cool the Burn and Remove the Wax
Step 1. Soak the affected area in cold water for up to 20 minutes
The first step to treating a wax burn? Cool the skin. Fill a sink, bathtub, or basin with cold water and let the affected area soak for at least 5 minutes, although it is better to wait longer, up to 20 minutes.
- If the burn is on your face, soak a washcloth in cold water and apply it to your face.
- You can also cool your skin by making an ice pack.
- Apply only water. Do not use soaps or other cleansers as they may irritate the burned skin even more.
Step 2. Remove any wax residue stuck to the skin
After soaking, observe the affected area to see if any pieces of wax are still attached and, if necessary, carefully peel it off. If even bits of skin come off, stop the process immediately.
Avoid removing any wax left on the blisters
Step 3. Find out if the burn can be treated at home
Minor burns can be safely medicated. However, if some areas have a white or dark pigmentation, you can see the bone or muscle, or the burn is quite extensive, it is important to seek medical attention.
Step 4. Remove the wax residue using petroleum jelly
If there are traces of wax on the burn, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly and wait 10 minutes, then gently wipe off the petroleum jelly with a soft, damp cloth. This way you should be able to get rid of the last remaining wax residues.
Part 2 of 2: Treating the Burn
Step 1. Wash the affected area with water
Before rinsing burned skin, wash your hands using water and a mild soap. Do not apply soap to the burn. Blot the area with a soft towel.
- Small pieces of leather may come off during washing.
- Burns are particularly prone to becoming infected so keeping them clean is essential.
Step 2. Apply pure aloe vera gel or antibiotic ointment to the burn
Look for a 100% pure aloe vera gel at a pharmacy or drugstore. Apply a thin layer to the affected area.
- If you have an aloe vera plant at home, you can cut a leaf and squeeze the juice from the inside.
- If you don't have an aloe vera plant, you can use vitamin E oil, which is just as effective.
- Alternatively, you could also use a silver sulfadiazine cream to prevent infections.
Step 3. Wrap the affected area with gauze.
If the burn is accompanied by blisters and / or cracks, it is recommended to bandage it. Apply a layer or two of sterile gauze to the wound, then secure it with adhesive medical tape. Change it 1-2 times a day or if it gets wet or dirty.
Step 4. Take ibuprofen to relieve pain and swelling
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen, help you feel better. Follow the instructions on the leaflet.
Keep the burn area elevated to decrease swelling
Step 5. Avoid touching the wound
It is normal to be tempted to scratch or tease the burned skin, but it is also risky: often the fingers have germs that could infect it. If you touch it, you risk damaging your skin during the healing process. Resisting temptation helps heal it better.
Step 6. Avoid exposing yourself to the sun
Since it is extremely sensitive, burned skin must be protected from sunlight. Try to go out only when absolutely necessary, until healing is complete.
If you really have to go out, apply sunscreen to the affected area. Choose one with an SPF of at least 30. You should also cover yourself with clothing and accessories
Step 7. See a doctor if you notice any signs of infection
If the burn shows symptoms of infection (such as bad odor, pus buildup, or intense redness) it is important to see a doctor. You should also do this if the burn doesn't go away within 2 weeks.
