For a small burn on a finger, the best first aid is to cool it under cool running water for about 10 to 20 minutes, then cover it with a clean, non- stick sterile bandage. You can also use an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or naproxen if you normally take them safely.

What to do

  • Hold the finger under cool running water; do not use ice.
  • Remove any rings or tight jewelry right away.
  • Gently cover it with a sterile, non-stick dressing.
  • If the skin is intact and the burn is minor, aloe vera or petroleum jelly may help soothe it.

What to avoid

  • Do not pop blisters.
  • Do not put ice, toothpaste, butter, or greasy/scented products on it.
  • Avoid adhesive bandages directly on the burn if they may stick to the skin.

Get medical help

Seek medical care if the burn is deep, larger than a small patch, causes severe pain, turns white/charred, affects a joint, or shows signs of infection like worsening redness, swelling, pus, or fever. Burns that are blistering heavily or involve the whole finger may also need evaluation.

If you want, I can also give you a 3-step finger-burn care routine for the next 24 hours.