Ouch! First aid for minor burns

You’re distracted in the kitchen and grab a hot pan you just took out of the oven. You pull your hand away fast, but not quickly enough to avoid a minor burn to your skin.

“One of the most important things to do if you burn your hand is to act fast,” the Mayo Clinic says.

Here’s what the clinic says to do:

• Run the burned skin under cool water for 10-15 minutes, or put a clean, damp washcloth on the area.
• Take off any jewelry near the burn site, as the area may swell.
• If a blister forms, resist the urge to pop it. If it breaks on its own, clean the skin with soap and water, apply an antibiotic ointment, and then cover the area with a bandage or gauze.
• Apply aloe vera gel or another pain-relief cream for temporary relief.

If a larger blister forms or your symptoms get worse, contact a health care provider.