What are the three types of burns?

The classification of burns into three types—First Degree, Second Degree, and Third Degree—accurately reflects the depth and severity of tissue damage caused by burns.

First Degree burns are superficial and typically affect only the outer layer of skin, resulting in redness, minor swelling, and pain, akin to a mild sunburn. Second Degree burns penetrate deeper, affecting both the outer layer (epidermis) and the underlying layer (dermis), leading to symptoms like blistering and more intense pain. Lastly, Third Degree burns are the most severe, damaging all layers of the skin as well as underlying tissues, which can result in a leathery appearance and numbness due to nerve damage.

This classification system is important for determining the appropriate treatment and management of burn injuries, guiding medical responders on how to categorize and prioritize care based on the severity and potential complications associated with each type of burn.