The belief
“Put toothpaste, ghee or ice on a burn”
The truth
None of these help, and all can make a burn worse. Cool running water for about twenty minutes is the correct first aid.
Educational information only. This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always speak to a qualified doctor about your own situation.
Why this belief spreads
Toothpaste feels cool on contact, so it seems to be helping in the first moments. Ghee and oil are traditional soothing applications for skin. The relief is immediate, so nobody questions it.
Why it matters
Toothpaste and ghee trap heat in the skin, deepening the burn, and they raise infection risk. Ice can freeze already-damaged tissue and cause further injury. All of them have to be cleaned off in hospital before treatment can start, which is painful and delays care.
What to do instead
- Hold the burn under cool — not ice-cold — running water for about twenty minutes
- Remove rings, bangles and watches near the burn before swelling starts
- Cover loosely with clean cloth or cling film
- Do not burst blisters
- Get medical help for anything larger than a small superficial burn, and for any burn on the face, hands, feet or genitals, or in a child
Educational information only. This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always speak to a qualified doctor about your own situation.