The injury is sometimes referred to as a “skinning.”
If enough friction is generated, an actualthermal burnwith blisters and peeling can occur.
Some cases can be treated at home, while others require medical treatment and hospitalization.
Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
Rug burns are usually minor and heal on their own within a week.
Friction burns involving larger portions of the body may take longer.
The velocity of the abrasion largely influences the severity of the burn.
First-degree and some milder second-degree burns can be treated at home.
More severe friction burns require medical treatment, including all third-degree burns, which are considered medical emergencies.
Do not pick or scratch at the wound as this could lead to an infection and scarring.
Instead, apply petroleum jelly (Vaseline) several times daily to keep the skin moist while healing.
After cleaning, medicated topical ointments or creams would be applied along with dry sterile bandages.
Third-degree friction burns may require an overnight hospital stay.
Plastic surgerymay be needed for certain friction burns to the face.
The treatment of a friction burn varies by its severity and size.
Some can be treated at home, while others require medical treatment and even hospitalization and surgery.
2017;43(5), 965-972. doi:10.1016/j.burns.2017.01.021.
2015;41(3), 582-589. doi:10.1016/j.burns.2014.08.012.
