Most basic first-aid kits crema para quemaduras a packet of burn cream. This is usually an over-the-counter (OTC) burn relief product that varies from moisturizing and antiseptic to pain reliever and antibiotic. Most also include a layer of aloe to help the healing process.

Immediately after being burned, cool the skin by running cool water over it for 20 minutes or so. Use a sink or shower, not ice — the cold can injure the skin more. You can also put the wound in a bowl or bucket of cool water. This will relieve pain and help prevent shock.

If it’s a small first-degree burn or a sunburn, there may be no need to see a doctor for it. Often, it will hurt less and heal faster if you keep it moisturised with an aloe-based product.

For more serious burns, you should seek medical care immediately. Depending on the severity, a doctor might prescribe a topical antibiotic cream or an oral antibiotic like neomycin or bacitracin. Neosporin is an example of an antibiotic ointment that can be purchased OTC and has been shown to reduce the risk of infection in superficial partial-thickness burns. It contains polymyxin B and bacitracin, but does not contain neomycin, which is helpful for people with a neomycin allergy.

Safeguarding Your Skin: How the Best Burn Creams Protect and Nourish

Other OTC burn creams that are available include silver sulfadiazine and povidone-iodine ointment. Both have been found to be effective in treating partial-thickness burns, but both can cause a local or systemic reaction and interfere with wound reepithelialization. In addition, povidone-iodine can be difficult to use in patients with large areas of sensitivity such as the face, ears or perineum.