What to do if scalded by hot oil

Nov 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

In general, after an oil burn, one should follow the principles of cooling to minimize damage and proper wound care. Management methods mainly include immediately removing the heat source, continuously rinsing with cool water, properly treating the wound, avoiding inappropriate actions, and performing appropriate follow-up care. When working in the kitchen, it is advisable to wear heat-resistant gloves and keep the stove area clean to reduce the risk of oil burns. If the burn covers a large area, the wound becomes infected with pus, or pain worsens, seek medical attention promptly.

Generally, after an oil burn, it is important to follow the principles of cooling down to minimize damage and proper wound care. The treatment mainly includes immediately moving away from the heat source, rinsing with cool running water, properly managing the wound, avoiding improper actions, and carrying out appropriate follow-up care. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Immediately move away from the heat source: Right after an oil burn, quickly step away from stoves, hot oil containers, or other heat sources, and avoid dripping hot oil. If clothing is soaked with hot oil, carefully cut it off with scissors—do not pull or tear the fabric, as this may rub against the injured area, worsening skin damage and pain.

2. Rinse continuously with cold water: This is a crucial first-aid step. Use flowing cold water at 15–25°C to rinse the burned area for 15–20 minutes. For small burn areas, soaking the affected part in cold water is also acceptable. Cold water rapidly removes localized heat, reducing thermal damage to deeper tissues and helping alleviate pain.

3. Properly manage the wound: After rinsing, gently pat the wound dry using sterile gauze or a clean cotton towel—do not rub. If the area is only red and slightly swollen, apply a specialized burn ointment to protect the wound. If small blisters appear, do not puncture them yourself; the blistered skin acts as a natural protective layer and helps reduce the risk of infection.

4. Avoid improper practices: Never apply toothpaste, soy sauce, flour, or similar substances to the wound. These can block pores, impair heat dissipation and drainage of exudate, and may lead to infection, complicating further treatment. Also, avoid using unverified home remedies, which may irritate the wound and delay healing.

5. Perform proper follow-up care: Lightly cover the wound with sterile gauze to keep it clean and dry, and change the dressing regularly. Avoid exposing the wound to dust, and do not rub or press on the injured area. Maintain a light diet, consuming more vitamin- and protein-rich foods such as vegetables and eggs to support wound healing.

When working in the kitchen, consider wearing heat-resistant gloves and keeping the stove area tidy to reduce the risk of oil burns. If the burn covers a large area, shows signs of pus, or if pain worsens, seek medical attention at a hospital promptly for professional treatment.

View All

What causes a stinging pain in the skin as if it's been burned, and what should be done about it?

In general, a stinging pain in the skin similar to a burn may be caused by exposure to irritants, dry environments, contact dermatitis, solar dermatitis, herpes zoster, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general measures, medications, or other treatments. In daily life, avoid known irritants and allergens, and choose mild skincare and cleansing products.

View Full Answer

How long does it take for hair to grow back after being burned off by fire?

When the scalp is injured, hair follicles may be temporarily or permanently damaged, and hair growth can significantly slow down. If burns cause redness and blistering of the scalp, the hair follicles enter a repair phase and may take over six months to potentially resume growth. In severe burns where hair follicles are extensively damaged, localized hair loss may occur. In such cases, medical evaluation is necessary to determine whether medical interventions are needed to assist follicle recovery.

View Full Answer

How long does it take to recover from a laser burn that created a hole on the foot?

In general, the recovery time for laser surgery wounds on the feet ranges from 1 to 4 weeks, depending on the wound size, individual constitution, and postoperative care. Smaller wounds, better physical condition, and proper wound care lead to faster recovery, while larger wounds or inadequate care may require a longer healing period. It is advisable to avoid prolonged standing or walking in daily life to reduce weight-bearing on the feet. In terms of diet, consume more protein- and vitamin-rich foods such as eggs and vegetables.

View Full Answer

What should I do if my skin is peeling due to alkali corrosion on my hand?

If the hand is burned and peels due to alkali corrosion, immediate treatment generally includes rinsing thoroughly with running water, applying a weak acidic solution to neutralize the alkali, using moisturizing and healing ointments, and avoiding further irritation to the damaged skin. Immediately after contact with alkali, place the affected hand under running water and rinse continuously for 15–20 minutes to dilute and remove residual alkali, thereby minimizing ongoing corrosion to the skin.