My brother says you shouldn't put butter on a burn. Is this true?
user
Treating burns with butter is a common misconception, and is not recommended. The recommended method of treating minor burns is to do the following:
1. Remove the source of the burn.
2. Remove any articles of clothing which may trap heat around the affected area.
3. Treat the burn with cold water.
4. Cover the burn with a clean, damp cloth.
assistant
Why doesn't treating burns with butter work, and how long will it take the burns to fully heal?
user
Putting butter or other greasy ointments on a burn may actually make things worse, since the grease will slow the release of heat from the skin. This causes more damage from the retained heat. The best way to release heat from the skin is with cool water.

Most skin burns that are small and first or second degree will heal within one to two weeks and will not usually scar. In some patients with second degree burns, the skin may become darker or lighter in color, and this will return to normal in 6-9 months
assistant