Editing Differences between First Degree Burns and Second Degree Burns

== First-Degree Burns vs. Second-Degree Burns ==
Burns are classified by the depth of damage to the skin and underlying tissues.<ref name="ref1" /> First-degree burns, also known as superficial burns, are the mildest form, affecting only the outer layer of the skin (epidermis).<ref name="ref2" /><ref name="ref3" /> Second-degree burns, or partial-thickness burns, are more severe, with damage extending into the second layer of skin (dermis).<ref name="ref4" /><ref name="ref5" />

A first-degree burn is characterized by redness, pain, and minor swelling. The skin remains intact but may be dry and feel warm to the touch.<ref name="ref3" /> A common example is a mild sunburn.<ref name="ref3" /> These burns typically do not blister.

Second-degree burns involve the epidermis and part of the dermis.<ref name="ref3" /> They are characterized by redness, swelling, and the formation of blisters.<ref name="ref4" /><ref name="ref5" /> The burned area may appear wet, shiny, or splotchy.<ref name="ref2" /> These burns are often intensely painful.<ref name="ref2" />

Healing time for first-degree burns is generally short, resolving within a week without scarring. Second-degree burns can take several weeks to heal and may result in scarring.<ref name="ref2" /> While most minor first-degree burns and small second-degree burns can be treated at home, medical attention is recommended for second-degree burns that are large or located on sensitive areas such as the face, hands, feet, or groin.

=== Comparison Table ===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Category !! First-Degree Burn !! Second-Degree Burn
|-
| '''Affected Skin Layers''' || Epidermis (outer layer) only<ref name="ref4" /> || Epidermis and dermis (outer and underlying layers)<ref name="ref4" /><ref name="ref5" />
|-
| '''Appearance''' || Red, dry, no blisters<ref name="ref3" /> || Red, splotchy, shiny, moist, with blisters<ref name="ref4" />
|-
| '''Symptoms''' || Pain, swelling, skin feels warm || Intense pain, swelling, blistering<ref name="ref4" /><ref name="ref2" />
|-
| '''Healing Time''' || Usually 2–5 days || 7–14 days or longer, depending on severity
|-
| '''Scarring''' || Typically does not scar || Can cause scarring
|-
<ref name="ref2" />| '''Common Causes''' || Mild sunburn, brief contact with hot objects || Scalding<ref name="ref3" /> liquids, flames, chemicals, electricity
|-
<ref name="ref2" />| '''Home Treatment''' || Cool water, aloe vera, over-the-counter pain relievers || Small burns may be treated at home; larger burns require medical attention
|-
| '''Medical Treatment''' || Generally not required unless a large area is affected || May include antibiotic ointments and specialized dressings
|}

[[File:Venn_diagram_Differences_between_First_Degree_Burns_versus_Second_Degree_Burns_comparison.png|thumb|center|800px|alt=Venn diagram for Differences between First Degree Burns and Second Degree Burns|Venn diagram comparing Differences between First Degree Burns and Second Degree Burns]]


Initial first aid for both types of minor burns involves cooling the affected area with running water. Ice<ref name="ref5" /> should be avoided as it can cause further tissue damage. For first-degree burns, treatment focuses on soothing the pain with cool compresses and moisturizers like aloe vera. Over-the-counter pain medication can also be used.

Treatment for second-degree burns aims to prevent infection and promote healing. This may involve applying an antibiotic ointment and covering the burn with a sterile dressing. It is important not to break blisters, as this can increase the risk of infection. Medical evaluation is necessary for larger second-degree burns or those in critical areas to prevent complications and minimize scarring.


== References ==
<references>
<ref name="ref1">[https://www.sriramakrishnahospital.com/blog/plastic-and-hand-surgery/whats-the-difference-between-first-degree-and-second-degree-burns/ "sriramakrishnahospital.com"]. Retrieved February 09, 2026.</ref>
<ref name="ref2">[https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/burns/symptoms-causes/syc-20370539 "mayoclinic.org"]. Retrieved February 09, 2026.</ref>
<ref name="ref3">[https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/skin-hair-and-nails/burns/stages.html "stanfordhealthcare.org"]. Retrieved February 09, 2026.</ref>
<ref name="ref4">[https://www.pennmedicine.org/conditions/burns "pennmedicine.org"]. Retrieved February 09, 2026.</ref>
<ref name="ref5">[https://www.britannica.com/science/second-degree-burn "britannica.com"]. Retrieved February 09, 2026.</ref>
</references>

[[Category:Comparisons]]