A burn blister is a small bubble of clear fluid that forms under the skin as your body’s way of protecting a burned area. This fluid, called blister fluid, is similar to plasma (the clear part of your blood) and contains proteins and other components thought to help with wound healing.
Burn blisters aren’t the same as blisters caused by friction, rashes, or pinched skin. They usually happen with second-degree burns from heat, chemicals, frostbite, or sunburn.
Types of Burn Blisters
There are three levels of burns, some needing medical treatment while others can be handled at home:
- First-degree burns affect only the top layer of skin and don’t always blister.
- Second-degree burns go deeper, damaging outer and underlying skin layers, and usually blister right away.
- Third-degree burns reach the deepest skin layers and may or may not have blisters.
Treatment depends on how severe the burn is. Basic first aid works for first-degree and mild second-degree burns, but more serious second-degree and all third-degree burns need professional care.
Even mild burn blisters may require medical attention if they get infected.
At-Home Treatment
For first-degree and mild second-degree burns with blisters, you can usually manage care at home. Here’s what to do:
- Gently wash the area with plain soap and water.
- Apply a petroleum-based ointment.
- Cover loosely with sterile, non-stick gauze.
- Keep the area clean and covered.
- Take an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever if needed.
Watch for signs of infection, which may mean you need medical help.
First- or second-degree burns smaller than 2 inches can be treated at home by keeping them clean and covered. Finger burn blisters need extra care to avoid infection since fingers are exposed to dirt and germs.
Most minor burn blisters heal within three weeks. If yours isn’t improving after about a week, call your healthcare provider.
What Not to Do
If you get a burn blister, don’t pop it. Also:
- Don’t use ice or ice-cold water—it can cause more pain and damage.
- Don’t put butter, oil, lotion, or other home remedies on it.
- Don’t scratch, even if it itches—this can break the blister and raise infection risk.
- Don’t wrap it too tightly—this can cut off blood flow.
- Don’t touch it without washing your hands first.
Keep the blister intact and the area clean to help it heal safely.
Should You Pop a Burn Blister?
No. Popping it removes the protective fluid, slows healing, and increases infection risk. If it pops on its own, trim any loose skin with clean scissors or tweezers, then keep the area clean and lightly bandaged.
When to See a Doctor
Go to the emergency room for:
- Burn blisters bigger than 2 inches
- Blisters on the face, hands, feet, or genitals
- Multiple blisters over dark red, shiny skin
- Increasing pain or swelling
- Fever
- Trouble breathing
- Swollen lymph nodes
Also get medical help if the blister shows infection signs, like:
- White, yellow, or pus-like drainage
- More pain
- Swelling
- Red or hot skin
While waiting for help:
- Raise the burned area above heart level if possible.
- Place a clean, cool (not cold) damp cloth on it.
- Lie down, elevate your feet, and stay warm to prevent shock.
- Remove nearby clothing or jewelry—unless stuck. If clothing is stuck, don’t pull it off; cut around it and wait for medical help.
Burns in Babies or Elderly People
First-degree or very mild second-degree burns can heal at home. But if a first-degree burn covers a large area or happens to an infant or elderly person, get medical care right away.
Medical Treatment
A doctor can clean the wound, prescribe pain meds if needed, and give IV fluids to prevent shock or dehydration. Severe cases may need skin grafts—replacing burnt skin with healthy skin.
Treatment also depends on the burn type. The American Burn Association recommends specialized care for chemical burns, high-voltage electrical burns, and burns with smoke inhalation.
Even minor burns can let tetanus bacteria in. If your last tetanus shot was over five years ago, you may need a booster.
Prevention
You can’t always prevent burns, but these tips help lower the risk:
- Be careful in the kitchen—nearly half of home fires start there. Never leave cooking unattended.
- Set water heaters to 120°F to avoid scalding. Test bath water with your elbow before using it, especially for kids.
- Keep hot items, matches, and lighters away from children. Use approved fuel containers for gas or kerosene.
- Dress warmly in cold weather to prevent frostbite. If frostbite happens, warm the skin slowly with lukewarm water.
- Use sunscreen and seek shade to avoid sunburn. Some medications (like doxycycline) increase sun sensitivity.
Summary
Burn blisters are fluid-filled bubbles that protect damaged skin. Never pop them—it raises infection risk. Mild ones can heal at home with basic care, but serious burns need immediate medical help.
Even though burns are common, they can still be painful and dangerous. If your blister isn’t improving or looks infected, see a doctor.
A Word From Verywell
Most simple burns can be treated at home: rinse with cool water, apply antibiotic ointment, and keep covered. If a blister forms, leave it alone—it’ll heal and drain on its own over time.