Burns first degree

What Is a First Degree Burn?

A first degree burn is the most common and least severe type of burn. It affects only the outer layer of skin, known as the epidermis. Symptoms include redness, mild swelling, and minor pain. First degree burns usually heal in one to two weeks without causing any permanent skin damage.

Causes of First Degree Burns

First degree burns are generally caused by exposure to a heat source. This could include hot food, hot liquids, steam, ironing, a hair straightener, boiling water, a hot surface, or even the sun. Some people also suffer from first degree burns due to chemical exposure, such as acids, alkalis, cleaning agents, and soaps.

Treatment for First Degree Burns

Treatment for first degree burns includes the following:

• Cooling the area with cool, not cold, water.
• Removing any clothing or jewelry near the affected area.
• Applying a cool, wet compress to the area.
• Using an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
• Applying a topical antibiotic, such as Neosporin, to prevent infection.
• Covering the area with a sterile gauze bandage.

In most cases, first degree burns heal within a week without medical intervention. However, if the burn is larger than three inches or if it is on sensitive areas of the body (such as the face, hands, or joints), it is advisable to seek medical attention. In rare cases, a malaria outbreak could occur.