1st, 2nd, and 3rd Degree Burns
Minor Burns
Overview
Burn Levels
- first-degree burns: red, non-blistered skin
- second-degree burns: blisters and some thickening of the skin
- third-degree burns: widespread thickness with a white, leathery appearance
There is also technically a fourth-degree burn. In this type, the damage of third-degree burns extends beyond the skin into tendons and bones.
Burns have a variety of causes, including:
- scalding from hot, boiling liquids
- chemical burns
- electrical burns
- fires, including flames from matches, candles, and lighters
- excessive sun exposure
First-Degree Burn
First-degree burns cause minimal skin damage. They are also called “superficial burns” because they affect the outermost layer of skin. Signs of a first-degree burn include:
- redness
- minor inflammation (swelling)
- pain
- dry, peeling skin (occurs as the burn heals)
First-degree burns are mostly treated with home care. Healing time may be quicker if you treat the burn sooner. To treat this type, you can:
- soak the wound in cool water for five minutes or longer
- take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain relief
- apply aloe vera gel or cream to soothe the the skin
- use an antibiotic ointment and loose gauze to protect the affected area
Second-Degree Burn
These are the most common signs and symptoms of a partial thickness second-degree burn:
Blisters
Deep redness
Burned area may appear wet and shiny
Skin that is painful to the touch
Burn may be white or discolored in an irregular pattern
As with first-degree burns, avoid cotton ball wraps and questionable home remedies. You can generally treat a mild second-degree burn by:
- running the skin under cool water for 15 minutes or longer
- taking over-the-counter pain medication (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
- applying antibiotic cream to blisters
However, seek emergency medical treatment if burns affect a widespread area of the:
- face
- hands
- buttocks
- groin
- feet
Third- Degree Burn
There is a misconception that third-degree means most painful. With this type of burn, the damage is so extensive that you may not feel pain because your nerves are damaged. Depending on the cause, third-degree burns cause the skin to look:
- waxy and white
- charred
- dark brown
- raised and leathery