Emergency Physician Questions Emergency Physician

Is it better to keep a burn moist or dry?

I burned my foot and it hurts bad. What should I do? Is it better to keep a burn moist or dry?

6 Answers

I recommend that you visit a wound center in your local area hospital for consultation. There are dressings that helps with healing and pain at the same time. as far as answer to your question, there is no right answer to it, usually we keep the wound moist until it scabs over or new skin is visible, then move onto a drier dressing.
Burns should be kept dry (gauze) covering, except for any antibiotic cream or ointment directly over the burn.
See a doctor and get an Rx for SILVADENE
Dry: You do not want a burn moist or macerated. That leads to an infection.
It is generally a good idea to keep ALL wounds moist. The best topical for a burn is called Silver Sulfadiazine or Silvadene cream. The wound should be covered at all times. Wounds should not be uncovered to 'breathe,' so to speak, as this leaves them open to get infected with bacteria.
Burns have different degrees. I recommend you see a foot and ankle surgeon (podiatrist) or primary care physician to discuss the best treatment options