Is It True You Can't Use Ice on Burns?
Published: June 28, 2021 · Last reviewed on this site: 2026-10-30
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The question
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Is it true that you can’t use ice on burns?
Signed: TeenHealthFX
The answer
Yes, this is in fact true. The treatment of the burn depends on how bad it is as well as how big the burn is. If it is a serious burn and/or larger than 3 inches, it may be necessary to call 911 or to go to an urgent care center. If it is a minor burn, the [mayo clinic explains some at home remedies that can help:
Run the burn under cool – not cold water and no ice.
Do NOT break blisters.
Once the burn is cool, you can gently apply aloe or a light moisturizer.
If needed, an over the counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) can be helpful.
If you find that the burn is not healing or still causing a lot of pain, we recommend being see by a doctor as soon as possible.