Can hand sanitizer be used to sterilize a burn?

While most hand sanitizers do contain ethyl alcohol, which is a sterilizing agent, hand sanitizer typically contains other ingredients, including fragrances or dyes. Because of these additional ingredients, it is really best to not use hand sanitizer to sterilize a burn, especially if it covers a large area, or is more serious than a minor burn. The best action is to run the burn under cool water, then cover with a sterile gauge bandage. If the burn is raw, then disinfecting with a sterile antiseptic, followed by the application of antibacterial ointment and a sterile gauze bandage, is the best route to recovery. If the burn is more serious, seek medical assistance immediately!