Superficial burns, stage I & II
Burns can be caused by dry heat (fire),wet heat (steam or hot fluids), radiation (sun), heated objects, extreme cold, inhaling smoke or toxic fumes, particularly from chemical explosions or house fires, electricity or chemicals.
The severity of the burn depends on:
- The size
- The area
- The depth
- The cause
Classification of superficial burns
Superficial burns
Superficial burns only affect the surface of the skin (epidermis). Your skin will be red and painful, but not blistered. Mild sunburn is an example of a superficial burn.
Partial-thickness burns
Partial-thickness burns are deeper burns that damage your epidermis and dermis to varying degrees. If the damage to your dermis is shallow, your skin may be pale pink and painful, with blisters. Deeper burns to your dermis will cause your skin to become dry or moist, blotchy and red. Deep partial-thickness burns can be painful or painless and may blister.