Our Emergency Department is very busy right now and some people are experiencing long waits. If you do not require emergency care, please use an alternative such as 111 online.
Try to keep dressings clean and dry.
If fluid from the burn leaks through the dressing, please return to the ED for the dressing to be replaced.
When should I seek medical attention?
If signs of infection develop (increasing pain, redness or swelling), seek advice from your GP or return to the emergency department.
What can I do at home?
Give Paracetamol or Ibuprofen for pain relief.
Use plenty of moisturiser regularly.
Use high factor sun protection cream on the area to protect new skin from burning.
When the skin is back to normal you should still use high factor sun cream. This reduces the risk of longer term scarring.
Reviewed by Dr T Shaw in October 2023, next review in October 2026.