2nd-Degree Burn: What It Looks Like, Treatment & Healing

Overview

• Second-degree burns are common, causing blistering, shiny skin, pain, and discoloration.
• They affect the epidermis and dermis, less severe than third-degree burns.
• Most second-degree burns can be treated at home.

Characteristics

• Appearance:
  • Deep red to dark brown skin discoloration.
  • Blisters and shiny, moist skin.
  • Possible swelling and peeling of the skin.
• Comparison:
  • 1st-degree: Only discoloration.
  • 2nd-degree: Includes blisters and moist appearance.
  • 3rd-degree: Skin may turn black and dry.

Common Locations

• Face, hands, mouth, arms or legs.

Possible Causes

• Fire flames, hot objects, sunburn, scalding from steam or boiling water.
• Chemical burns and electric shocks.

Skin Reaction

• Damage to the first and second layers of skin triggers immune response.
• Skin discoloration and swelling indicate immune activity.
• Healing involves peeling and flaking of skin.

Care and Treatment

• Home Treatment:
  • Rinse burn with cool water for 5-30 minutes.
  • Cover with a clean bandage or non-stick gauze.
  • Avoid friction on the burn.
  • Use over-the-counter pain relievers.
  • Change bandage daily.
• Prescription: Silver sulfadiazine (Silvadene) for treatment.
• Infection: Seek medical attention if burn shows signs of infection.

Healing Stages

• React: Immune response with swelling and discoloration.
• Repair: Removal of damaged tissue for new growth.
• Remodel: Formation of scars, filled with collagen.

Prevention

• Avoid touching hot surfaces and open flames.
• Use protective gear and keep hot items from children.
• Test temperatures of foods/beverages; reduce hot water temperature.
• Use sunscreen outdoors.

When To Call the Doctor

• Large burns (more than 3 inches in diameter) or infection symptoms.
• Special care for young children, elderly, or those with weakened immune systems.

Infection Symptoms

• Severe pain, pus leakage, spreading discoloration, foul odor.
• Fever with any of the above symptoms needs emergency care.

Additional Common Questions

• Burn Types:
  • 1st-degree: Top layer damage.
  • 2nd-degree: Top and middle layer damage.
  • 3rd-degree: Extends to fat layer.
  • 4th-6th degrees: Damage extends to muscles, nerves, bones.
• Scarring: Possible, especially with larger burns; may fade over time.
• Healing Time: Typically 1-3 weeks, depending on severity and location.

Cleveland Clinic Care

• Offers dermatology care and appointment services.
• Emphasizes prevention and treatment of burns.