Overview

Second-degree burn Open pop-up dialog box Close Second-degree burn Second-degree burn A second-degree burn, which often looks wet or moist, affects the first and second layers of skin (epidermis and dermis). Blisters may develop and pain can be severe.

Burns are tissue damage that results from heat, overexposure to the sun or other radiation, or chemical or electrical contact. Burns can be minor medical problems or life-threatening emergencies.

The treatment of burns depends on the location and severity of the damage. Sunburns and small scalds can usually be treated at home. Deep or widespread burns need immediate medical attention. Some people need treatment at specialized burn centers and monthslong follow-up care.

Products & Services Book: Mayo Clinic Book of Home Remedies

Symptoms

Skin anatomy Open pop-up dialog box Close Skin anatomy Skin anatomy Your skin has three layers that house your sweat and oil glands, hair follicles, melanocytes, and blood vessels.

Third-degree burn Open pop-up dialog box Close Third-degree burn Third-degree burn Third-degree burns extend into the fat layer that lies beneath the dermis. The skin may appear stiff, waxy white, leathery or tan. These types of burns usually require skin grafts for wound closure.

Radiation burn Open pop-up dialog box Close Radiation burn Radiation burn Radiation burns can be caused by X-rays or radiation therapy to treat cancer.

Burn symptoms vary depending on how deep the skin damage is. It can take a day or two for the signs and symptoms of a severe burn to develop.

1st-degree burn. This minor burn affects only the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). It may cause redness and pain.

This minor burn affects only the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). It may cause redness and pain. 2nd-degree burn. This type of burn affects both the epidermis and the second layer of skin (dermis). It may cause swelling and red, white or splotchy skin. Blisters may develop, and pain can be severe. Deep second-degree burns can cause scarring.

This type of burn affects both the epidermis and the second layer of skin (dermis). It may cause swelling and red, white or splotchy skin. Blisters may develop, and pain can be severe. Deep second-degree burns can cause scarring. 3rd-degree burn. This burn reaches to the fat layer beneath the skin. Burned areas may be black, brown or white. The skin may look leathery. Third-degree burns can destroy nerves, causing numbness.

When to see a doctor

Seek emergency medical assistance for:

Burns that cover the hands, feet, face, groin, buttocks, a major joint or a large area of the body

Deep burns, which means burns affecting all layers of the skin or even deeper tissues

Burns that cause the skin to look leathery

Burns that appear charred or have patches of black, brown or white

Burns caused by chemicals or electricity

Difficulty breathing or burns to the airway

Take first-aid measures while waiting for emergency assistance.

Call your doctor if you experience:

Signs of infection, such as oozing from the wound, increased pain, redness and swelling

A burn or blister that's large or doesn't heal in two weeks

New, unexplained symptoms

Significant scarring

Causes

Burns are caused by:

Fire

Hot liquid or steam

Hot metal, glass or other objects

Electrical currents

Radiation, such as that from X-rays

Sunlight or other sources of ultraviolet radiation, such as a tanning bed

Chemicals such as strong acids, lye, paint thinner or gasoline

Abuse

Complications

Complications of deep or widespread burns can include:

Bacterial infection, which may lead to a bloodstream infection (sepsis)

Fluid loss, including low blood volume (hypovolemia)

Dangerously low body temperature (hypothermia)

Breathing problems from the intake of hot air or smoke

Scars or ridged areas caused by an overgrowth of scar tissue (keloids)

Bone and joint problems, such as when scar tissue causes the shortening and tightening of skin, muscles or tendons (contractures)

Prevention

To reduce the risk of common household burns:

Never leave items cooking on the stove unattended.

Turn pot handles toward the rear of the stove.

Don't carry or hold a child while cooking at the stove.

Keep hot liquids out of the reach of children and pets.

Keep electrical appliances away from water.

Check the temperature of food before serving it to a child. Don't heat a baby's bottle in the microwave.

Never cook while wearing loosefitting clothes that could catch fire over the stove.

If a small child is present, block his or her access to heat sources such as stoves, outdoor grills, fireplaces and space heaters.

Before placing a child in a car seat, check for hot straps or buckles.

Unplug irons and similar devices when not in use. Store them out of reach of small children.

Cover unused electrical outlets with safety caps. Keep electrical cords and wires out of the way so that children can't chew on them.

If you smoke, never smoke in bed.

Be sure you have working smoke detectors on each floor of your home. Check them and change their batteries at least once a year.

Keep a fire extinguisher on every floor of your house.

When using chemicals, always wear protective eyewear and clothing.

Keep chemicals, lighters and matches out of the reach of children. Use safety latches. And don't use lighters that look like toys.

Set your water heater's thermostat to below 120 F (48.9 C) to prevent scalding. Test bath water before placing a child in it.

Also be alert to burn risks outside the home, especially if you are in places with open flames, chemicals or superheated materials.