In our daily lives, small accidents can happen at unexpected times. Things like spilling hot water, getting your hand on an iron, or touching a hot pan while cooking are all common causes of skin burns. The majority of these types of burns are what we call 'Second-Degree Burns'. These are the most common and severe type of burns. So, let's talk about all of this today.
What is a second-degree burn?
Simply put, a second-degree burn is a burn that damages two layers of your skin. Our skin is made up of several main layers. In this case, the top layer of skin ( the epidermis ) and the second layer underneath ( the dermis ) are damaged.
This is more severe than a first-degree burn (which only causes redness), but less severe than a third-degree burn (which damages the deepest layers of the skin). Most of the time, we can treat minor, second-degree burns at home.
What does a second-degree burn look like?
It's important to recognize whether a burn is second-degree. You'll often see these signs:
- The formation of water-filled blisters: This is the main symptom.
- Skin color changes: Skin color can change from dark red to brown.
- Severe pain and inflammation: The burn site feels significant pain.
- Swelling: The burned area swells.
- Shiny, moist appearance: Blisters can cause the skin to appear moist and shiny.
- Peeling of the skin: Sometimes the top layer of the skin can peel off.
The most important thing is to never pop these blisters yourself . Doing so increases the risk of infection.
How is this different from other types of burns?
Identifying the types of burns can be a bit confusing. But we can get a rough idea by looking at their appearance. Let's look at the differences between the three main types of burns.
| Burn Type | Appearance & Features |
|---|---|
| First-Degree | Just redness of the skin. There may be slight pain. No blisters. Just like sunburn. |
| Second-Degree | It is dark red, has blisters filled with water, is swollen, and is very painful. |
| Third-Degree | The skin may appear white, black, or burnt brown. The skin may be dry and leathery. Pain may also be reduced due to nerve damage. This is a very dangerous condition. |
Sometimes the same burn can have symptoms of more than one of these types, so if in doubt, it's best to see a doctor.
How do you treat a second-degree burn at home?
If the burn is smaller than 3 inches and not in a sensitive area (face, palms, soles, genitals), you can perform first aid at home.
1. Apply cold water immediately: Apply cool water, such as tap water, to the burn immediately. Hold it for at least 5 minutes . Even up to 20-30 minutes is fine. This will reduce pain and stop the damage from getting deeper.
2. Don't use ice: Never apply ice, ice water, toothpaste, coffee grounds, or coconut oil to a burned area. These can further damage the skin.
3. Dry gently: Gently pat dry with a clean, soft towel. Do not rub vigorously.
4. Cover: Cover the burn with a clean, non-stick gauze or bandage. This will help prevent infection.
5. Painkillers: If there is pain, you can take a painkiller (e.g. paracetamol) recommended by your doctor.
6. Change the bandage: Apply a new, clean bandage at least once a day. It is very important to keep the wound clean.
Sometimes doctors may recommend a special cream, such as `Silver Sulfadiazine` (Silvadene®), to prevent infection. However, it should only be used under medical advice.
When should we definitely see a doctor?
Not all burns can be treated at home. In the following cases, without any hesitation, see a doctor immediately or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
| Situation | Of particular note |
|---|---|
| If the burn is larger than 3 inches (7-8 cm) . | Major burns require specialized treatment. |
| If the burn is on the face, hands, feet, joints, or genital area . | Because these are sensitive and important places for function. |
| If you are showing signs of infection (severe pain, pus, bad odor, spreading redness). | Infections can be dangerous and require immediate treatment. |
| If the burn was caused by an electric shock or a chemical substance . | These types of burns may have caused more internal damage than is apparent from the outside. |
| If a child under 5 years old or a person over 70 years old gets burned. | Their skin is very sensitive and the risk of complications is high. |
| If you have a disease that reduces immunity, such as diabetes or cancer. | It takes time to heal and the risk of infection is high. |
If you have a fever along with these symptoms, go to an ETU immediately.
How to prevent burn injuries?
Isn't it wiser to prevent an accident than to suffer after it has happened? With a little attention, we can prevent many burn accidents.
- Be careful in the kitchen: When cooking, turn pot handles away from the stove. Keep hot items out of reach of children.
- Hot water: Check the temperature of the water when bathing children. Keep the temperature of your home water heater at a safe level.
- Electrical appliances: When you are finished using things like irons, put them out of reach of children. Put protective covers on electrical outlets.
- Sunlight: Be sure to use sunscreen when going out in the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
A second-degree burn usually takes one to three weeks to heal. This can vary depending on the size and location of the burn. Sometimes a scar may remain after healing. However, proper treatment can reduce that risk.
Take-Home Message
- In a second-degree burn, the top and second layers of skin are damaged, and blisters form.
- A minor burn can be treated at home by immediately applying cold water and keeping it clean. Never apply ice, toothpaste, or anything else.
- If the burn is large, on a sensitive area like the face, or showing signs of infection (severe pain, pus), see a doctor immediately.
- It is very important to seek medical advice when burned, especially for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
- Avoid popping blisters on your burn yourself, as this can lead to infection.
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