Burnt Hand After Viral Diwali Handshake? Here’s How to Heal It Fast

Every Diwali season, a new trend breaks the internet. This year’s trend, however, literally set fire… on hands. A viral video showed two people applying hand sanitizer and shaking hands, creating sparks and causing burns. While it may look hot on social media, it can leave serious injuries on your skin. Burns from such stunts are painful and can cause blisters, redness, and even long-term scarring. If you or someone you know ended up with a burnt hand, here’s a practical guide to healing it fast and safely.

The Viral Handshake Trend

 

 

 

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The trend went viral as a creative stunt where two participants applied alcohol-based sanitizer on their palms and shook hands, igniting a brief flame. Social media users found it entertaining, but physicians warn that it’s extremely risky. Burns from alcohol or fire can range from mild to severe depending on contact time and skin sensitivity.

What to know about the risks:

• Immediate pain and redness are common.
• Blisters can develop within hours.
• Deeper burns may require medical attention.
• Infection risk is higher if skin breaks.

Expert Tips for Fast Healing of Hand Burns

In one of our previous articles, Dr Khushali Lalcheta, Consultant Physician, HCG Hospitals, Rajkot, gave important advice on treating burns caused by firecrackers or similar injuries. Although the cause here is sanitizer-related fire, the first aid remains largely the same:

Step-by-step care for minor burns:

• Cool the burn immediately: Place the hand under running cold water for 10–20 minutes. Avoid ice directly on the skin.
• Clean gently: Use mild soap and water to remove any debris.
• Avoid popping blisters: Let them heal naturally to reduce infection risk.
• Apply soothing ointments: Aloe vera gel or burn-specific creams recommended by your doctor.
• Cover lightly: Use sterile gauze to protect the area from friction or further injury.
• Take pain relief if needed: Over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help.

Additional tips from Dr Lalcheta:

• Keep the hand elevated to reduce swelling.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Monitor for signs of infection: pus, increasing redness, or fever. Seek medical help immediately if these appear.
• Avoid home remedies like butter or toothpaste, which can worsen burns.

Preventing Burns During Festivals

While fun trends go viral, safety should always come first. Precautions to consider:

• Avoid using alcohol-based products near open flames
• Keep a fire extinguisher or water bucket handy when handling crackers.
• Educate children and friends about safe celebration practices.
• Avoid imitating dangerous social media trends, even for short videos.

ALSO READ: Self-Care or Self-Sabotage? The Difference Between Rest and Avoidance

Conclusion

While the “sanitizer handshake” trend may have caught attention online, it highlights the risks of burns and fire-related injuries. Quick, proper first aid can reduce pain, prevent infection, and speed up recovery. Following expert advice and taking preventive measures ensures you enjoy a fun and safe Diwali without visiting the hospital unnecessarily.