Understanding Burn Degrees and First-Aid
Before considering any topical treatment, it is vital to assess the severity of the burn. Proper first-aid for minor, first-degree burns—which involve only the top layer of skin and cause redness, mild pain, and swelling—starts with cooling the area.
The First-Aid Rule of Cool Water
The first and most important step for any minor burn is to run the affected area under cool (not cold or icy) water for 10 to 20 minutes. This crucial step helps reduce swelling, decrease pain, and stop the burning process by drawing heat away from the skin. After cooling, gently clean the burn with mild soap and water before applying any ointment.
The Role of Desitin in Minor Burn Care
Desitin comes in various formulations, and not all are recommended for burn care. The primary product suitable for minor burns is the Multi-Purpose Healing Ointment, which contains white petrolatum as its active ingredient.
Petrolatum vs. Zinc Oxide in Desitin
Desitin Multi-Purpose Healing Ointment contains a high percentage of white petrolatum, which acts as a skin protectant, forming a moisture barrier. This barrier protects minor cuts, scrapes, and burns from irritants and maintains moisture to promote healing. It is the only type of Desitin specifically marketed for minor burns. In contrast, Desitin Maximum Strength Paste, with its higher concentration of zinc oxide, is primarily for diaper rash and is not the recommended choice for burns.
Proper Application for Minor Burns
For a first-degree burn or a minor second-degree burn with intact blisters, apply a thin, even layer of Desitin Multi-Purpose Healing Ointment after the initial cooling period. Avoid applying it to deep, serious, or blistered burns.
A Comparison of Burn Ointments
When treating a minor burn, several over-the-counter options are available. The table below compares Desitin Multi-Purpose with other common burn ointments.
| Feature | Desitin Multi-Purpose Healing Ointment | Bacitracin | Polysporin | Aloe Vera | Silver Sulfadiazine (Rx) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | White Petrolatum (71.3%) | Bacitracin Zinc | Bacitracin and Polymyxin B | Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice | Silver Sulfadiazine |
| Primary Function | Skin Protectant, Moisture Barrier | Antibiotic | Antibiotic | Soothing, Anti-inflammatory | Antibacterial |
| Best For | Minor cuts, scrapes, and burns | Minor cuts and burns | Minor cuts and burns | Soothing sunburns and minor burns | Second and third-degree burns |
| Key Benefit | Creates a protective, healing moisture barrier | Prevents bacterial infection | Prevents bacterial infection, good for those with Neomycin allergy | Cools, soothes, and moisturizes skin | Prevents infection in more severe burns |
| Application | Apply after cooling, on unbroken skin | Apply after cleaning, on unbroken skin | Apply after cleaning, on unbroken skin | Apply after cooling, can be reapplied | Prescription only, for deeper burns |
| Caveat | Do not use on deep or serious burns | Some risk of allergic reaction | Avoid if allergic to ingredients | Avoid products with alcohol or fragrances | Can slow healing; prescription required |
When to Seek Medical Attention for a Burn
Not all burns are minor. Serious burns require immediate medical attention. Seek professional care if a burn is third-degree, a second-degree burn larger than three inches or with ruptured blisters, on sensitive areas (face, hands, feet, joints, genitals), caused by chemicals or electricity, shows signs of infection, or is accompanied by difficulty breathing.
Important Burn Care Do's and Don'ts
- Do cool the burn with cool running water for 10-20 minutes.
- Do apply a thin layer of Desitin Multi-Purpose Healing Ointment or petroleum jelly after cooling.
- Do cover with a loose, sterile bandage.
- Don't use ice, butter, mayonnaise, oil, or pop blisters.
- Don't apply Desitin to deep or serious burns.
Conclusion: Will Desitin help a burn?
Desitin Multi-Purpose Healing Ointment can help minor burns by creating a protective moisture barrier after the crucial initial step of cooling with water. It is not suitable for serious burns. Proper first aid and knowing when to seek medical help are essential for safe burn care. For more first aid information, consult resources like the American Red Cross.
