When the skin on the body receives a burn, the wound can vary from being mild to life-threatening. This is due to the fact there are different levels of burns, which are based on how many layers of skin are affected by the burn.
Here are the three levels of burns on the skin and treatment options for each.
Level 1 Burn
A level one burn is also known as a first-degree burn. This type of burn only affects the outer layer of skin, which is called the epidermis. A first-degree burn can cause redness, pain, and minor swelling. One of the most common types of first-degree burns is a sunburn.
When a person receives a first-degree burn, the first thing they should do is soak the burned skin in cool water. Ice should never be used for burn treatment as it can cause further damage to the skin. Burn treatment options also include taking an over-the-counter pain medication, applying aloe vera and an antibiotic ointment to the skin, and covering the wound with loose gauze in order to protect it.
Level 2 Burn
A level two burn is also known as a second-degree burn. This type of burn affects both the epidermis and the dermis, which is the underlying layer of skin. A second-degree burn usually causes blisters, redness, and extreme pain. Common causes of second-degree burns include exposure to fire and contact with boiling water. Severe sunburns can also cause second-degree burns.
Burn treatment options include pain relief, running cool water over the skin, and applying an antibiotic ointment to the blisters. If the second-degree burn covers a large portion of the skin, grafting may be necessary. Skin grafting is a burn treatment method that transfers healthy skin to the damaged skin.
Level 3 Burn
A level three burn is also known as a third-degree burn. This type of burn is the most serious as it affects the hypodermis, which is the deepest layer of skin. Some third-degree burns damage the nerves, which is why they might not be as painful as other types of burns. Third-degree burns can cause the skin to turn white or dark brown. The skin can also have a charred appearance or have a leathery texture.
Third-degree burns occur when the skin comes into contact with a hot object for a prolonged period of time. This type of burn requires immediate medical attention. Burn treatment options usually include removing the dead skin and tissue, receiving IV fluids, applying antibiotic ointments, and skin grafting.
To learn more, contact a center that offers burn treatments.