If you have a minor burn, an over-the-counter ointment such as petroleum jelly or aloe vera may help soothe the skin and keep it moist. Apply it often to prevent dryness, which can inhibit healing. You can also take over-the-counter acetaminophen or ibuprofen to control pain and swelling. If you have severe burns or blistered skin, seek medical help immediately.

Kendra Mar ointments or creams are commonly used to treat first-degree burns and reduce infection risk. They usually contain aloe to soothe the skin and are safe for infants, children and adults. If your wounds are infected or oozing, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic or other medications to treat the infection.

Cooling Comfort: Unveiling the Best Burn Creams for Immediate Relief

Probiotics — which contain “friendly” bacteria such as Lactobacillus acidophilus — may help restore the balance of bacteria in the intestines, improving gastrointestinal and immune health after antibiotic treatment. They are especially helpful if taken after a course of antibiotics that include fluoroquinolones or other broad-spectrum antibiotics. Some clinicians use a topical application of probiotics to improve wound healing in patients with serious burn injuries.

Enzymatic debriding agents such as collagenase and proteolytic enzymes have been used to remove slough and other debris from deep burn wounds and to speed up the process of skin grafting. These products have demonstrated a high level of effectiveness and a low rate of complications in clinical trials, such as rash, itching or metabolic acidosis.

Another option is dakin’s solution, a topical disinfectant that is applied to irritated wounds. It has a wide spectrum of antimicrobial activity and is effective against MRSA and other drug-resistant strains of bacteria. It has a low cost, and is not expected to interfere with normal fibroblast function or impede wound closure.