What is what to do when you burn yourself with a hot glue gun?

When you burn yourself with a hot glue gun, quick action is crucial to minimize the damage. Here's what you should do:

1. Immediate Cooling: Immediately immerse the burned area under cool (not ice-cold) running water for 10-20 minutes. This helps to stop the burning process and reduces pain. You can find more information on cooling%20burns.

2. Remove the Glue (Carefully): If the hot glue is still attached, do not rip it off. This can tear the skin. If it easily comes off under the cool running water, then gently remove it. If it's stuck, leave it and seek medical attention. More details are available on glue%20removal.

3. Assess the Burn: Determine the severity of the burn.

   • First-degree burns: These burns only affect the outer layer of skin (epidermis). The skin will be red, painful, and dry.
   • Second-degree burns: These burns affect the epidermis and part of the dermis. The skin will be red, blistered, swollen, and painful.
   • Third-degree burns: These burns destroy the epidermis and dermis, and can even damage underlying tissues. The skin may be white or charred, and may be numb.

4. Clean the Burn: Gently wash the burned area with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh soaps or scrubbing. For more on this see cleaning%20burns.

5. Apply Antibiotic Ointment: Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment (such as Neosporin or Bacitracin) to the burned area. This can help prevent infection. A helpful description can be found on antibiotic%20ointment.

6. Cover with a Sterile Bandage: Cover the burn loosely with a sterile, non-stick bandage. This will protect the burn from dirt and further irritation. Look up more information on sterile%20bandages.

7. Pain Relief: Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, if needed.

8. When to Seek Medical Attention: Seek medical attention for:

   • Third-degree burns
   • Second-degree burns that cover a large area (larger than 3 inches in diameter)
   • Burns on the face, hands, feet, genitals, or major joints
   • Signs of infection (increased pain, redness, swelling, pus)
   • If you are unsure about the severity of the burn.
   • If you haven't had a tetanus shot in the last 5 years, especially with a deeper burn. Read more about medical%20attention.

9. Avoid: Do not apply butter, oil, or other home remedies to the burn. These can trap heat and increase the risk of infection.