- Red, painful skin
- Blistering or bubbling
- Open or weeping skin
- Pain or tenderness at the burn site
Burns
Burn wounds are one of the most common reasons children and youth visit the Emergency Department. Preventing burn injuries is important because burns are painful, can leave scars, and in some cases may require surgery such as skin grafts. Some children may also need to wear special garments for a long time to help with healing.
What you need to know
- Burn injuries are common in children and youth
- Burns can be painful and may cause scarring
- Some burns require surgery and long‑term follow‑up
- Proper first aid and wound care help burns heal properly
Burns are assessed based on their size, depth, location, and symptoms. Some burns can be managed at home, while others require care in the Emergency Department.
First aid for burns. As quickly as possible:
- Remove clothing from the injured area
- Place the burned body part under room‑temperature tap water for 20 minutes
- If tap water is not available, use wet towels
Never apply:
- ice
- oils
- butter
- toothpaste
- any other substances
These can make the burn deeper and worse.
Aftercare / What to do at home
Helping with pain
Most pain from burn wounds can be managed at home with:
- ibuprofen
- acetaminophen
Medicines for pain and fever come in different concentrations. Always: • check the concentration on the bottle, read package directions carefully. If you are unsure, contact your pharmacist or primary care provider for help.
Bandages
There are two types of bandages commonly used for burns.
1. Hydrofiber impregnated with silver bandages
Leave this dressing in place until your follow‑up visit with the plastic surgeon
- Do not wash the area
- Keep the dressing dry at all times
2. Gauze bandages
- Change every two days
- Remove the old dressing
- Clean the area with a wet cloth
- Apply Vaseline
- Cover with a new dressing
Burns on the face:
- Apply Vaseline 2-3 times daily
- Clean the area with a wet cloth between applications
Diet and activity
- A healthy diet supports burn healing
- Encourage fluids and high‑protein foods such as:
- meat
- fish
- eggs
- yogurt
- hummus
- tofu
- cheese
Your child may return to normal activities as long as they are not experiencing significant pain.
Washing
- Bathe your child once per day in warm, soapy water
- Include healed skin in washing
- Pat dry — do not rub
Do not wash burn areas covered with silver‑impregnated bandages. Keep them dry until your plastic surgery visit.
Caring for scars
- Burns that take longer to heal are more likely to scar
- You cannot prevent scars, but you can improve their appearance
After the burn has healed:
- Apply an unscented moisturizer three times per day
- Gently massage the scar for a few minutes each time
Itching
- Itching is common as new skin heals
- Helpful strategies include:
- regular warm baths
- moisturizer
- cooler room temperatures
Tips: Ice wrapped in a towel or cool cloths may feel soothing. Keep nails short and pat instead of scratching to prevent infection.
Sun protection
- New skin burns easily for 18–24 months after a burn
- Keep your child out of direct sunlight
- Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
- Reapply after swimming
Sun exposure can cause permanent uneven darkening of healed skin.
When to come to the Emergency Department
Seek emergency care if the burn develops blisters and is larger than the size of a Loonie. If you have concerns about your child’s burn or healing, return to the Emergency Department or contact your health‑care provider.
Disclaimer
These resources are for educational purposes only. If you have questions, speak with your health care provider. Last updated: June 2026
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