Tips to Care for Self-Harm Burns

Self-harm is a serious issue and if you or someone you know is struggling, it’s crucial to seek help. While this article provides information on caring for self-harm burns, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have self-harmed, please reach out to a trusted adult, mental health professional, or a crisis hotline immediately.

Dealing with the aftermath of self-harm can be incredibly difficult. Burns, in particular, require specific care to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of infection. Remember, seeking help for the underlying emotional distress is just as important as treating the physical wounds.

Understanding the Severity of the Burn

The first step in caring for a self-harm burn is to assess its severity. Burns are categorized into three degrees:

First-degree burns: These are the mildest, affecting only the outer layer of skin. They typically appear red, dry, and may be painful.
Second-degree burns: These burns penetrate deeper, affecting both the outer and underlying layer of skin. They often present as red, blistered, and swollen, with significant pain.
Third-degree burns: The most severe type, these burns damage all layers of skin and underlying tissues. They may appear white or charred, and may not be painful due to nerve damage.

Important: If you believe you have a second or third-degree burn, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. These burns require specialized care to prevent infection and promote healing.

Immediate Steps for Treating Self-Harm Burns at Home

If you have a first-degree burn, you can take the following steps at home:

Cool the burn: Immediately run cool (not cold) water over the burn for 10-20 minutes. Avoid using ice, as it can further damage the skin.
Cleanse gently: Wash the burned area with mild soap and water. Be gentle and avoid scrubbing.
Apply antibiotic ointment: A thin layer of over-the-counter antibiotic ointment can help prevent infection.
Cover the burn: Loosely cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick bandage.
Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage discomfort.

Seeking Professional Medical Help

While first-degree burns can often be managed at home, it is always best to err on the side of caution. Contact your doctor or seek medical attention if:

The burn is severe: As mentioned, second or third-degree burns require professional medical care.
The burn covers a large area: Burns larger than a few inches in diameter should be evaluated by a medical professional.
The burn is located on a sensitive area: Burns on the face, hands, feet, genitals, or over joints require special attention.
Signs of infection appear: Watch for redness, swelling, increasing pain, pus, or red streaks extending from the burn.

Long-Term Care for Self-Harm Burns

Proper care after the initial treatment is essential to minimize scarring and promote healing:

Keep the area clean: Wash the burn gently with soap and water daily.
Moisturize: Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer to the healed burn to prevent dryness and itching.
Protect from the sun: Newly healed skin is sensitive to sunlight. Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on the affected area.
Avoid picking or scratching: This can damage the healing skin and increase the risk of infection.

Moving Forward: Seeking Help for Self-Harm

Caring for your physical wounds is important, but addressing the emotional pain that led to self-harm is crucial for long-term healing. Remember:

You are not alone: Many people struggle with self-harm, and there is help available.
Reach out for support: Talk to a trusted friend, family member, therapist, or counselor.
Consider joining a support group: Connecting with others who understand can provide valuable support and coping strategies.

If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm, please reach out for help immediately. You can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741. There is hope, and you don’t have to go through this alone.