A splash of boiling water, Ouch! When you experience this, your first intuition is speeding to the fridge for an ice cube. But is ice actually good to treat a skin burn? The answer is, big no. In fact, it could harm your skin.

Treating a burn with ice or very cold water decreases blood flow to the burnt area. This can damage your already-damaged skin tissue further, as the decreased blood flow can lead to permanent blood flow problems.

So what should you do to treat a burn at home? Here are ways to treat a first-degree (minor) burn:

Apply cool water (not cold one) for five to 20 minutes by running tap water over the burn, dipping the burned area in water or using a clean, wet towel.

Gently dry the burnt area, then apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment. Take pain reliever if needed.

Protect the burn using a sterile, non-adherent burn bandage, wrap it loosely.