Why does ice on burns stop hurting?

Applying ice after a burn can relieve pain because low temperature can effectively lower the temperature of the skin and slow down the inflammatory response. When burned, the temperature of the skin rises rapidly, causing cell damage and inflammatory response, which is the source of pain and redness and swelling. Applying ice can slow down these reactions by lowering the local temperature, thereby relieving pain.

Ice doesn't just make you feel better, it also helps reduce tissue damage. Imagine that burned skin is like an overheated machine, and ice is like cooling the machine to prevent further damage. Cold temperatures can shrink blood vessels and reduce blood flow, thereby reducing inflammation and swelling. This method is very effective in the acute stage, but be careful not to apply ice for too long, generally 10 to 15 minutes each time, to avoid frostbite.

However, ice compress is not the only solution. After a burn, it is also a good choice to rinse the affected area with running cold water in time. This can not only quickly reduce the skin temperature, but also clean the wound and reduce the risk of infection. Many people may think that flushing with running water is not as effective as ice compress, but in fact, the combination of the two is more effective.

In daily life, we will inevitably encounter minor burns. If you are accidentally burned, it is key to stay calm and take prompt measures. Ice compresses and cold water rinses are simple and effective methods that can help us relieve pain and discomfort in the first place. Of course, if the burn area is large or blisters appear, it is recommended to seek medical attention in time for professional treatment.

Ice compress is not a panacea, but it is a simple and effective method to treat minor burns. Through scientific and reasonable treatment, we can minimize pain and protect skin health. I hope this article can provide you with some practical suggestions so that you can deal with burns more calmly.