Can I apply toothpaste on burns?

It is a common misconception to apply toothpaste after a burn, but it is not recommended. Although toothpaste is a readily available item in many households, it is not suitable for treating burns. The ingredients of toothpaste are mainly used to clean and whiten teeth, and contain many chemicals that may irritate the injured skin and may even aggravate the severity of the burn.

When dealing with a burn, the most important thing is to cool the injured area quickly. This can be done by running cool running water over the burn for at least 10 to 20 minutes, with the goal of lowering the skin temperature, relieving pain and preventing further damage. The cold water acts like cooling an overheated engine, giving the skin a chance to slowly recover.

Some people may wonder if toothpaste has a cooling effect similar to cold water when applied. In fact, the cooling effect of toothpaste mainly comes from ingredients such as mint. This feeling cannot really lower the temperature of the skin. On the contrary, its heavy texture may hinder the heat dissipation of the skin.

When dealing with burns, it is very important to keep the wound clean. Applying toothpaste may increase the risk of infection because toothpaste is not sterile. Instead, use sterile gauze to gently cover the injured area to avoid friction and contamination, which is more conducive to wound healing.

Of course, serious burns require prompt medical attention. Skin blisters, whitening or blackening, and large burns all require professional medical attention. Using appropriate medications and dressings under the guidance of a doctor is a safe and reliable choice.

Therefore, it is not recommended to apply toothpaste after a burn. Correct first aid measures and professional medical care are the key to protecting the skin and promoting healing. I hope everyone will pay more attention in daily life to avoid the risk of burns, and be able to deal with it calmly in case of an accident.