Should Ice Be Put on a Burn?

Don't use ice, ice water or even very cold water.
Severe burns shouldn't be treated with ice or ice water because this can further damage the tissue. The best thing to do is cover the burn with a clean towel or sheet and head to the emergency room as quickly as possible for medical evaluation.

Does ice make a burn worse?

A: No, you should not use ice, or even ice-cold water, on a burn. Extreme cold applied to a burn can further damage the tissue. To properly cool and clean a burn, remove any clothing that covers it. If clothing adheres to the burn, don't peel it away.

Is ice good to put on a burn?

According to the Mayo Clinic, putting ice on a burn can cause frostbite and damage the skin. For better results, try running cool water over the area and taking a pain reliever. Then cover the area with gauze but no ointment. Most minor burns heal without further treatment, the clinic says.

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.