You can usually treat curling iron burns like any other thermal skin burn, depending on their severity. Immediately applying cold water and then using a topical remedy can generally heal mild first-degree burns. Most burns of this type are gone within a few days. Second- or third-degree burns, however, typically require medical attention, as these burns are more likely to cause blisters and serious skin damage. Using a curling iron safely, such as keeping the temperature setting low and unplugging it when not in use, can help you avoid burns.
Curling iron burns can occur on your face, neck, hands, and virtually anywhere else that is subject to burn. People often burn their foreheads or faces when using a curling iron to style their hair. They can also burn their fingers by unintentionally touching a hot iron that does not have a protective tip. Children and others may burn their hands by accidentally touching a hot iron left within reach.
To treat the burns, the first action suggested by most medical professionals is to minimize the potential burn damage by stopping the heat. They advise putting cold water on the burn for at least 20 minutes; you can either submerge the area in cold water or apply a cold compress for up to 30 minutes. If you believe that the burn is mild, you can wash the area with antibacterial soap or a gentle cleanser that contains moisturizers.
For pain relief, many doctors recommend applying pure aloe vera. You can use a gel or the juice from the leaf of an aloe vera plant, which may also help prevent blisters. If there is no open wound, you can try using another mild skin lotion. Taking ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory might also relieve some pain. To avoid potential complications, however, contacting a doctor is often advised prior to administering such medications to children.
Generally, you should not apply ice directly to curling iron burns because it can cause additional damage to burned skin. Most experts also caution against using powder, butter, or any other grease to treat burns. There is little evidence that they help and, in many cases, they can harm the skin. Some people use honey or another home remedy, and there are conflicting reports about the effectiveness of such treatments. When in doubt, someone with a serious burn should seek medical advice.
Many people feel self-conscious and try to hide a curling iron burn. Wearing a hat, scarf, or other protective covering is a common option, yet care should be taken to avoid rubbing or otherwise irritating the burned area. When trying to hide a burn by applying makeup, many people make it worse by getting bacteria in the wound, so this practice should usually be avoided.
There are several ways to avoid curling iron burns. One is to choose a curling iron with a rubber or plastic tip to avoid finger burns. Furthermore, most people can use a lower heat setting and still style their hair effectively. To ensure curling iron safety at home, it is recommended that you keep the styling tool away from children who could burn themselves by accident. Ideally, a curling iron should be unplugged and put away when not in use.