There are degrees of burns, some of which require immediate medical attention. Here’s how to tell the difference.
Superficial burns (also known as first-degree burns) affect the top layers of skin. They can be painful, but most times are not serious. If you experience redness and swelling after brushing against a hot pan or spending too much time in the sun, you probably have a superficial burn. “If there's no blistering, you're probably safe to take care of it at home,” says White.
How to treat: Tend to superficial burns by rinsing with lukewarm water (not ice cold, as that can cause further tissue damage), a cool compress and ointment, like petroleum jelly or moisturizer. Until the burn is healed, keep the area clean with soap and water and protect it with a gauze pad.
When to seek help: Some burns are far more serious. Superficial partial-thickness and deep partial-thickness burns (also known as second-degree burns) reach deeper parts of the skin and cause painful blisters, redness and swelling. If these burns are larger than three inches in diameter or cover the feet, hands, face or a major joint, go to the emergency room for treatment.
Full-thickness burns (also known as third-degree burns) are the most serious, as they reach the deepest layers of skin, and often result in nerve damage. Full-thickness burns can cause black or white charred skin, swelling and a leathery appearance. Any burns larger than three inches that produce blisters or show signs of infection, like increased pain, swelling or oozing, need immediate medical attention. If you suspect a full-thickness burn, head to the emergency room.
In addition, “any burn that's on the hands, feet, face or genitalia, regardless of degree, needs to be evaluated by a doctor,” says White.