How to Identify First Degree Burns

First-degree burns are the least damaging of all burns.This type of burn affects only the epidermis or outer-most layer of the skin. First-degree burns cause minimal tissue damage. However, any type of burn is still painful and potentially damaging to the skin. A common example of a first-degree burn is a sunburn. Hot water or certain chemicals can also cause first-degree burns. Children and elderly people are especially at risk for complications with a first-degree burn.

Instructions

First-Degree Burns

• 1

  See the skin turn red. Redness at the location of the burn is the first symptom of a first-degree burn.

• 2

  Feel sensitivity and pain at the location of the burn. The burn will be very sensitive to the touch.

• 3

  Look to see if the skin turns white or blanches when pressed. Blanching occurs with first-degree burns.

• 4

  Feel an itching sensation in the area of a burn. Many times the burn will itch, but scratching can be painful.

• 5

  Feel the heat. First-degree burns are often warm to the touch and may even cause a fever.

• 6

  Notice the skin start to peel. First-degree burns will cause the skin to peel off as the burn heals.