(09/15/09) Nearing a breakthrough in the recovery process for second degree burns, scientists from the University of Michigan have developed an initial lotion that uses nanoemulsion agents to help fight infections in the wounds of burn victims. This oil-and-water-based nanotechnology has shown signs of reducing bacteria growth and reducing inflammation, according to a press release from the university’s Health System.

The study shows that this nanoemulsion lotion succeeds where current lotions used in burn recovery fail, in that they are unable to fight the bacteria growing beneath the epidermis. Already used in a variety of research, the nanoemulsion lotion has shown great possibilities as it has killed other bacteria, fungi and viruses.

In situations of second degree burns, immediate medical attention is necessary because of the rapid inflammation and spread of bacteria. The inflammation can lead to the leaking of vital fluids, which leads to a longer recovery time. With the promise this new lotion and technology have shown, recovery time could be reduced greatly for second degree burn patients, and the amount of skin graft work they would need done would also be reduced.

While this new burn treatment has yet to be tested on humans, the nanoemulsion technology has already succeeded in treatments for cold sores, toenail fungus and cystic fibrosis infections. It is also used in flu vaccines.

(Source: University of Michigan Health System News Room)