When "Caution Hot" Isn't Enough: Burn First Aid
You just couldn't wait, could you? Didn't you know the pan was still red-hot? Well, now look. You've got a burn the shape of Texas on your arm. Calm down. I said the shape, not the size.
Really. There's no need to cry. There are tons of things here in the kitchen you can use to soothe the burn. Just let Spoon show you around.
Cool Water
Photo by Jocelyn Hsu
Quick. Run to the sink and stick your burn under cool water for ten to fifteen minutes. This will stop the initial stinging feeling. Avoid super cold water or ice cubes unless you'd like to add "frostbite" to your skin's list of complaints for the day.
Honey
Photo by Jocelyn Hsu
In the same way that honey can alleviate a sore throat, it can make a mild burn feel much better. Honey is a natural antiseptic with healing properties, and it smells amazing.
Vinegar
Photo by Elizabeth Layman
Though it doesn't smell quite as nice as honey, it works just as well as an antiseptic. If you dilute it with a little water, it shouldn't sting too much when you rinse your burn with it.
Baking Soda
Photo by Michelle Lin
Rifle through the cupboard where you store your baking materials or paw through your refrigerator to find your handy dandy box of baking soda. Mix a teaspoon or so of that with some water to make a paste. Smear it across your burn and let it dry there for ten to fifteen minutes.
Soy Sauce
Photo by Elizabeth Layman
In Berkeley, there is no lack of soy sauce. Some swear that leaving soy sauce on a burn for twenty minutes to half an hour will take away the sting.
Photo by Elizabeth Layman
*Disclaimer: Spoon is not a doctor. You can self-diagnose your burn here. If you think you have anything more than a minor burn, log off your computer and track down a real doctor right now. Be nice to your skin–it's your body's largest organ. Safe cooking/baking!
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