Second Degree Burns FAQ

What is a Second-Degree Burn?

Second degree burns, also referred to as partial-thickness burns, are marked by pain, blistering and superficial destruction of the outer and lower layers of skin, known as the epidermis and dermis. As a result, second degree burns develop blisters and become extremely red and sore, differentiating the severity level from first-degree burns.

What are the Symptoms of a Second-Degree Burn?

Common Symptoms of second degree burns include:

• Blisters
• Skin that is painful to the touch
• White or discolored burn in an irregular pattern
• Burned area appears to be wet or shiny
• Skin that looks very deep red or deep brown

These symptoms often remain mild but can become intense, warranting a trip to the doctor.

What are the Different Causes and Types of Second Degree Burns?

Sunburns: Sunburns are an inflammation of the skin caused by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation, typically from sunlight. These ultraviolet rays can penetrate the first layer of skin causing blisters, redness, and irritation. Sunburns are most commonly a result of:

• Staying in sunlight for long periods
• Insufficient sunscreen coverage
• Engaging in outdoor activities while under the influence of alcohol
• Lengthy tanning bed usage
• Using photosynthesizing medications

Electric: An electrical burn is a skin reaction caused by an electric current passing through the body. Specific mediums causing a second-degree electric burn can be either a low voltage burn, which is anything under 500 volts, or flash burns, which can affect a large portion of skin. Both children and adults are prone to common facilitators of second degree electric burns, which are:

• Using electrical appliances while wet
• Touching exposed power outlets
• Adjusting prongs of an electrical cord
• Inserting fingers into electrical sockets

Thermal Burns/Scalds: Thermal burns, also known as scalds, are burns resulting from direct skin contact with substances or objects. These can include heated substances/objects such as hot liquid, steam, fire, and hot objects. Similar to other types of burns, severity of the thermal burn often depends on the amount of exposure someone has to the medium causing the burn. Common causes of second degree thermal burns/scalds include:

• Touching a hot iron
• Touching boiling water
• Touching a hot cooking pot or pan
• Contact with a flame
• Friction between the skin and an opposing surface
• Extended contact with an extremely cold object

Chemical: Chemical Burns, also known as caustic burns, are burns that cause skin irritation and inflammation when either the eyes or skin are exposed to an irritant, such as an acid or a base. In the case of more severe chemical burns, the internal organs can be affected by ingesting or swallowing a chemical. Products that often produce chemical burns if used incorrectly are:

• Cheap pool chlorine
• Bleach
• Ammonia
• Teeth whitening products
• Denture cleaners
• Car battery acid

How Can a Second-Degree Burn be Treated?

Second degree burns can be relived with home treatment and are best treated by first rinsing the burn under cool water until the pain stops, which will cool down the burn and prevent the burn from becoming more serious. Once the burn is properly rinsed, it is best to apply an ointment containing Aloe Vera in combination with Lidocaine to ensure that the burn continues to be relieved and pain is minimized. A bandage can be wrapped around the burn once ointment or cream is applied.

Although legitimate, it is best to avoid inadequate home remedy treatments such as honey, lemons, butter, mayonnaise, and ice as these methods often cause infection and increase the severity of the wound. To adequately treat the burn, alleviate the pain, and speed healing, use the combination of aloe, Lidocaine, and vitamin E, all ingredients found in Alocane.

How Long Does It Take to Heal a Second-Degree Burn?

On average, a second-degree burn takes between 2-3 weeks to heal fully without scaring although severity of the blisters can extend this time. Factors that influence the healing time include the location of burn, treatment methods, and severity.

When Should You See a Doctor About a Second-Degree Burn?

Doctors typically do not need to be contacted in the case of second-degree burns. However, you should consult your doctor or seek medical care if:

• The burn appears to be infected with irregularities extending beyond the area of the burn
• The individual burned is a young child or elderly person
• The burn is larger than the palm of the persons hand in an area such as the face, groin, hands, feet, or buttocks

Indications that the burned area may be infected are:

• Green or yellow liquid draining from the burn
• A change in color of the burned area
• An increase in swelling and tenderness
• Redness begins to develop leaving the burned area

How Can Second-Degree Burns be Prevented?

When the appropriate steps are taken, second degree burns are easily avoidable. Abide by these tips to ensure that second degree burns are avoided.

Preventing Sunburns:

• Use sunscreen that is at least 30 SPF
• Avoid spending an extended amount of time in the sun or tanning beds
• Avoid the use of alcohol while engaging in outdoor activities
• Use water resistant sunscreen
• Wear sunscreen year-round since 80% of ultraviolet rays can escape cloud coverage
• Avoid using expired sunscreen

Preventing Electric Burns:

• Use or cover exposed electrical sockets
• Avoid using electric powered appliances while wet
• Turn off circuit breakers before making repairs to wiring
• Unplug unused appliances
• Place electrical cords outside of the reach of children

Preventing Thermal Burns/Scalds:

• When hot cooking pots are present, keep them on the back burner with the handles turned inward to avoid mishap
• Ensure children have sufficient supervision when around open flames, hot surfaces, and hot objects
• Avoid using extension cords for kitchen appliances
• Avoid bathing, shower, or coming in contact with water that is above 120 degrees Fahrenheit

Preventing Chemical Burns:

• Store chemicals at home in locked cabinets, out of the reach of children
• Use proper attire and eye protection when using chemicals
• Always follow directions and safety precautions provided by the manufacturer, which are typically included on the label

Sources:

Medical News Today

Healthline Media

Mayo Clinic

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

Verywell Health

Cigna