What to Do When You Get Rug Burn

Cooling

As soon as possible after the rug burn occurs, cool the affected area by submerging it in cold water or running cold water over it for 10 to 15 minutes. A washcloth or small towel soaked in cold water and applied to the burn will also suffice. The cool water will help dissipate the heat of the burn so that it won't cause any further damage to the skin.

Loosely cover the burn with a bandage made of sterile gauze after cooling it off with water. This will help keep the burned skin clean and dry and protect it from any additional injury. Keep clean bandages on the burned area until it is healed so that it won't make contact with clothing or anything else that can be irritating and may cause infection.

If you would like an extra safeguard against infection, the injured area can be lightly coated with a topical, antibacterial cream before covering it with a fresh gauze bandage. However, in most cases the bandage alone is enough protection for the burn, and additional measures are not necessary.

When cooling the burn, do not put ice on it. You should also avoid applying rubbing alcohol or any lotions, oils, ointments or powders to the burn. These types of products will only create unnecessary pain and may cause the burn to become infected. If any small blisters appear on the burn, do not break them; broken blisters are particularly susceptible to infection. It is also recommended that you avoid using any type of fluffy cotton to cover the burn as this material may get stuck to the burned skin.