No matter the extent of a burn, the experience can be very traumatic. They lead to swelling and damaged tissue and are usually quite painful. When a burn is extensive and deep, it will leave behind scars.

To minimize the amount of scarring that you can suffer, it is important that you follow a treatment protocol that helps heal burns and includes a burn scar treatment program. Effective treatment plans can last for many years, so be patient.

Reduce Your Risk of Scarring

You should administer first aid as soon you've experienced a burn. Remember that it is important that you reduce the heat of the affected area to keep it from deepening the burn or affecting the surrounding tissue.

In order to cool down a burn you need to hold it under running water or simply immerse the burned cool water. Cold compresses are the best option for large areas with severe burns. And no matter what you've heard, never use cold water, oils, butter, or onions to reduce the temperature of a burn because you will risk causing more damage.

Call 911 immediately! The sooner you get medical attention, the more likely it is that you will prevent burn scars.

Burn Scars Treatment Protocols

Minor burns require analgesics, but there is usually no scarring. However, moderate burns may cause blistering as well as subsequent scarring. It is important not to break any blisters to reduce your chances of infection and scarring.

If you suffer from minor burns the most important part is that you keep your skin hydrated. This will keep it supple and resistant to cracking and further damage. If you have third degree burns, however, they will require the assistance of a team of professionals.

When a person suffers severe burns, the proper burn scar treatment protocol begins with grafting skin from their own body or using a skin bank. This will help the burn heal quickly and reduce any chance of infection. Once the wound has healed, you can begin using other scar reduction methods.

Silicone bandages and compression devices are common scar reduction methods. They apply pressure to the wound and help make the scar tissue thinner and more pliable. Sometimes it will be necessary to use burn scar removal surgery and grafts to allow for more movement, however, once the wound has healed you can use scar creams to help in the healing process.

Scar creams can also be used to help eliminate scar tissue and make the skin more supple. Smaller scars are often treated exclusively with scar creams. If you decide that you'd like to try this method then make sure that you look for scar creams that contain rose hip seed oil and snail serum.