Burned Your Skin While Styling? Here’s How To Treat A Curling Iron Burn Quickly And Safely
We’ve all been there rushing through a hairstyle, only to accidentally brush a hot curling iron or flat iron against the skin.
The result? A painful, red mark that can sting for days and sometimes leave behind dark spots or scars. The good news is that with quick, proper care, you can soothe the skin and prevent lasting damage.
Here’s what dermatologists recommend for healing a curling iron burn safely and fast.
- Cool the area immediately
The first step is to reduce heat and inflammation. Run cool (not icy) water over the burn for about 10 minutes. Avoid applying ice directly, it can worsen the injury by restricting blood flow to already damaged skin. If water isn’t available, a cool compress works just as well.
- Clean and soothe the burn
Once the area is cooled, gently cleanse it with mild soap and water to remove bacteria. Pat it dry, then apply a soothing product like aloe vera gel, honey, or a fragrance-free moisturizer. Aloe helps calm inflammation and speed up healing, while honey has natural antibacterial properties that prevent infection.
- Avoid picking or peeling
It can be tempting to peel off any flaking or scabbing skin, but resist the urge. Picking can delay healing and increase the risk of hyperpigmentation or scarring, especially for darker skin tones. Instead, keep the area moisturized and covered with a light, breathable bandage if needed.
- Use over-the-counter healing creams
If the burn is mild, applying a thin layer of 1% hydrocortisone cream can help reduce redness and swelling. For slightly more severe burns, petrolatum-based ointments like Vaseline can lock in moisture and protect the healing skin barrier.
- Protect from the sun
Once the burn starts to heal, apply sunscreen daily, even indoors. Sun exposure can darken healing skin and lead to stubborn hyperpigmentation. Look for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and reapply as needed.
- When to see a doctor
If your burn blisters, covers a large area, or shows signs of infection (such as pus or increasing pain), consult a dermatologist immediately.
With quick attention and gentle care, curling iron burns can heal smoothly, leaving your skin as flawless as your finished style.
