Essential oils can be useful for treating minor burns, as some have soothing, anti-inflammatory, and skin regenerating properties. However, it is important to use them with caution and only on first-degree burns (mild burns, without blisters). Here I detail some beneficial essential oils for this purpose and their ways of use.

Effective Essential Oils for Minor Burns

1. Lavender Essential Oil

   • Properties: It has calming, analgesic, and regenerating effects. Lavender is known for its ability to reduce pain, soothe the skin, and accelerate the healing of damaged skin.
   • How to use: You can apply a drop directly to the burn, as long as it is small and superficial, or dilute it in a little coconut oil or aloe vera for a softer effect.

2. Roman Chamomile Essential Oil

   • Properties: Anti-inflammatory, soothing and suitable for sensitive skin. Helps reduce pain and irritation in burned skin.
   • How to use: Dilute a drop of chamomile essential oil in a teaspoon of carrier oil (such as almond or coconut oil) and apply gently to the burn.

3. Tea Tree Essential Oil

   • Properties: Antiseptic and regenerating, ideal for preventing infections in minor burns. It also helps regenerate the skin and reduce inflammation.
   • How to use: Dilute 1 drop of tea tree oil in a teaspoon of carrier oil and carefully apply to the burned area.

4. Frankincense Essential Oil

   • Properties: Helps regenerate cells and reduce scars, promoting faster healing.
   • How to use: Mix 1-2 drops in a carrier oil and apply to the burn once it has cooled and stabilized.

5. Helichrysum Essential Oil

   • Properties: It is excellent for regenerating the skin, reducing redness and helping healing. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve pain.
   • How to use: Dilute one drop in a carrier oil, such as coconut or almond oil, and apply gently to the burn.

How to Use Essential Oils for Burns

1. Always dilute in carrier oil or aloe vera gel: It is essential to dilute essential oils to avoid additional irritation to burned skin. Aloe vera gel is an excellent carrier because it also has calming and cooling properties.

2. Direct application for small burns:

   • For small, mild burns, dilute the essential oil in a teaspoon of carrier oil (such as coconut, almond, or jojoba) or a teaspoon of pure aloe vera gel. Apply the mixture gently on the burned skin.

3. Soothing Spray:

   • Mix 10 drops of lavender essential oil with 50 ml of distilled water and a little aloe vera gel in a spray bottle. Shake well and spray on the burn for instant relief.

4. Cold compresses with essential oils:

   • Fill a container with cold water, add 2-3 drops of lavender or chamomile, and soak a clean cloth. Place the compress on the burn to soothe the pain and reduce redness.

Precautions

• Use only on minor burns: Essential oils are only indicated for minor and small burns. If you have a severe burn, with blisters or open wounds, seek medical attention and avoid using essential oils until the skin has stabilized.
• Avoid sun exposure: Some essential oils such as lemon, orange or bergamot are photosensitive, which means they can make the skin more sensitive to the sun. Avoid using these oils on burns.
• Perform a sensitivity test: If you have never used an essential oil on your skin, do a test on another area before applying it to the burn to avoid adverse reactions.

Conclusion

Essential oils such as lavender, frankincense, and chamomile can be of great help in treating minor burns, as long as they are used correctly and diluted. They are ideal for relieving pain, calming inflammation and promoting skin regeneration. However, remember that in the case of severe burns or with signs of infection, it is essential to seek professional medical attention.