Whether minor or more sever, burns are a painful experience that can sometimes go as far as damaging skin, muscle and even bone. Depending on the size and location of the wound, a burn scar can become quite crippling.

You can help heal burns by maintaining a controlled amount of damage and scar development. This can be done by having an appropriate first aid response to the burn. With extensive or severe burns, a scar treatment program is laid out. This treatment may last for several years so prepare yourself.

First Aid: Reduce Possible Scarring

You should administer first aid as soon as possible. In order to avoid a burn from deepening the burn or affecting the surrounding tissue, it is important that you cool-down the affected area.

To this, immerse the burned area in cool water or hold it under running water. Severe burns that cover a larger area should be treated with cold compresses. Never use cold water or oils, butter or onions to reduce the temperature of a burn because you will risk causing more damage.

These steps will help reduce or prevent burn scars, however, if you do find yourself exposed to a severe burn you should immediately call 911 for medical assistance. Always keep in mind that early treatment is a good way to minimize potential scarring.

Basic Rules of Conduct for Burn Scars Treatment

Minor burns will require analgesics, but there is usually no scarring. Moderate burns can cause blistering as well as subsequent scarring. Also remember that you should avoid breaking any blisters so that you don't increase your chances of infection or scarring.

The most important part of minor burns is to keep the skin hydrated. This will keep your skin from suffering further damage. If you have third degree burns, however, they will require the assistance of a team of professionals.

Skin grafting is the most common form of burn scar removal or burn scar treatment for severe burns. Skin grafts can be harvested from the person's body, or they can come from a skin bank. Once the wound has closed or healed, you can begin using scar reduction procedures.

A common scar reduction method includes compression therapy. This type of therapy works by applying uniform pressure to the wound for an extended period of time. Silicone bandages and compression garments are often used to help accomplish this goal.

Scar creams can also help achieve scar reduction. In fact, smaller scars are best treated with this type of product. Make sure to look for products that contain ingredients that help dissolve damaged tissue and replace it with healthy skin cells (e.g. rose hip seed oil and snail serum).