You may want to think twice about putting butter on your burn. Although, it’s a popular folk remedy you’ve probably heard countless times before, there’s no evidence that it works. In fact, putting butter on your burn can cause an infection and prolong the healing process.
Butter does not have any of the properties needed to treat a minor burn— it’s not a cleanser (antiseptic), it doesn’t fight infection (antibiotic), nor does it provide pain relief (analgesic).
To effectively treat a minor burn, physicians recommend that you cool the burn by running it under cool water until the pain subsides or placing a cool cloth over the burn. Do not use ice, however. Next, clean the burn with soap and water, making sure you don’t break any blisters. After it’s clean, put a thin layer of ointment on it, such as petroleum or aloe vera, and lastly, cover it with a gauze bandage. If needed, take an over-the-counter- pain reliever.
If you want to use a household item out of the pantry for your burn—try honey instead. Research has shown that honey has several healing properties.
If your burn, however, is from a fire, electrical wire, or chemicals, or larger than two inches, you should seek medical attention.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.