Burn plasters come in very handy when it comes to quick and efficient treatment of burns, especially for minor burns.
A burn refers to an injury or damage to your skin and sometimes deeper tissues caused by exposure to heat, chemicals, electricity, radiation, or friction.
They can be classified as:
- First-Degree Burn
Which has symptoms like redness, minor pain, and swellings but no blisters. It includes minor sunburns.
- Second-Degree Burn
It extends to the second layer of your skin. It shows symptoms like redness, swelling, and pains and also has blisters. It includes severe sunburns or scaldings.
- Third-Degree Burn
It destroys both the outer skin layer and inner skin layer, affecting underlying tissues of your skin. It is usually white, charred, or has a leathery appearance. It may not be painful because of nerve damage. It includes fire burns or burns from chemical exposure.
- Fourth-Degree Burn
It extends through the skin and subcutaneous tissues to muscles, bones, and tendons. It also involves severe nerve damage and usually requires surgeries and amputation. It can be caused by prolonged exposure to flames and electricity.
Burn Plasters
Burn plasters are special types of bandages that provide pain relief and protection for a burn injury so that it can heal faster.
It is a special plaster used especially for covering burns.
Unlike normal bandages, it cools the burn, provides a protective layer against infection, and provides an environment suitable for healing. It also helps reduce pain and help the burn heal without a scar.
Using the proper plaster for a burn blister or any other kind of burn wound will help the skin to recover more rapidly.
Types of Burn Plasters
They are very effective in preventing burn contamination. It has a moist surface that is designed to cool the burn, facilitate easy removal, and deliver immediate pain relief. They are ideal for fresh burns.
They retain moisture and are specially used for partial-thickness burns in the last healing phase. Their moist surface accelerates skin repair. They work very well for small blisters.
They are very good for sensitive skin and help reduce scarring during the healing process.
They contain silver or other antibacterial agents to protect the wound from infection.
Why Should You Use a Burn Plaster?
Burn plasters are highly recommended because of the following benefits
- Pain Relief
The cooling layers of the plasters soothe the burn, reducing a lot of discomfort.
- Protection to skin
They act like a barrier and keep the burnt area away from the reach of dirt and bacteria. This reduces the risk of infection.
- Fastens treatment
Burn plasters keep the lesion moist, hence the skin heals faster, and they reduce the chances of scars setting in.
- Scars can be avoided.
They avoid the scars since the injury is rightly cured.
- Easy to apply
They are easy to apply and tend to remain in position, hence easy to use on a day-to-day basis.
When Should You Apply Burn Plaster?
Burn plasters will be suitable for the following types of burns
- First-degree burns
Burns wherein the skin appears red but has not blistered.
- Small second-degree burns
When the burn creates blisters, a plaster for a burn blister helps to soothe and protect the area.
- Small types of small kitchen or home burns, usually obtained from holding a hot pan or spilling hot tea on oneself, can be cured with a burn plaster.
However, large and deep chemical burns are to be treated right away in the hospital. A serious burn should not be treated with a burn plaster at all.
READ ALSO: Best Body Wash for Glowing Skin: A Complete Guide to Radiant Skin
Application of Burn Plaster
This is a step-by-step guide on how to apply burn plasters.
- Clean the Burn
To remove any filth or debris, clean the burn with cool water. Dry using a neat towel or napkin.
- Choose the Right Plaster
Choose a plaster according to the size and severity of the burn. A blistered burn requires selecting a plaster for the burn blister to avoid bursting.
- Apply the Plaster
Allow the plaster to be placed on the burn, ensuring it wholly covers the wound. Flatten out to stick well.
- Change the Plaster as Necessary
Follow the directions of the manufacturer. Most burn plasters may be left on for at least a day or two without replacement.
- Inspect Healing
The skin around a regular burn may be red, swollen, and pus may ooze from it. If it is, it will require attention and the use of medical remedies.
Some of the best burn plasters in the market include
- Compeed Burn Plasters
These hydrocolloid plasters are great for small burns and blisters to be covered. They ensure long-lasting protection with soothing pain.
- Hansaplast Burn Plasters
This is for minor burns and has the added advantage of preventing infection because of their antibacterial nature.
- Mepilex Border Lite
This is a silicone-based option that is gentle on sensitive skin, reducing scarring.
- 3M Nexcare Burn Pads
These pads cool the burn and keep the wound moist for faster healing.
Additional Tips for Burn Care
Using a burn plaster is just one step in treating a burn. Here are some tips to follow to ensure proper healing:
- Don’t Use Ice
Don’t apply ice to the burn as it can worsen skin damage.
- Avoid Popping Blisters
If blisters form, leave them intact. Cover them with a plaster to prevent infection.
- Stay Hydrated
Take enough water for easy and quick recovery.
- Protect the Burn from Sunlight
Cover the burn with clothing or sunscreen to prevent further damage.
Conclusion
Good treatment of burns heals it without any complication, and burn plasters are very effective for this.
Whether for a blister or for a wound, these special dressings reduce pain and the risk of infection, accelerating the healing process.
Having them in store at all times in cases of emergencies is very necessary.
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