Burns vs. Other Wounds: Why Treatment Must Be Different

Burns need completely different treatment than cuts or scrapes. Never apply ice directly to burns—it causes more tissue damage. Cool running water for 10-20 minutes is the correct first step. Don't use butter, oils, or thick ointments that trap heat inside. Burns damage multiple skin layers and create special infection risks. They also cause more pain than other wounds because nerve endings are exposed. After cooling, natural wound spray designed for burns protects without trapping heat. Treating burns like regular wounds leads to worse scarring and longer healing.