What should never be applied to a burn?

Applying ice to a burn is not recommended because it can cause additional damage to the already compromised skin. Burns lead to inflammation and tissue injury, and exposing burn areas to extreme cold can result in further tissue damage and even frostbite. The area affected by the burn is sensitive and can react poorly to drastic temperature changes.

In contrast, using cool water is often advised for burns, as it can help relieve pain and reduce swelling without causing additional harm. It’s crucial to treat burns with care to promote healing and minimize long-term effects. Consequently, it’s best to avoid ice and instead use methods that provide gentle cooling, such as running cool water over the burn.