Symptoms

The symptoms of a burn vary depending on its severity.

The following are the symptoms for first, second, and third degree burns.

First degree burns are the mildest type of burn. The American Academy of Dermatology Association note that first degree burns only affect the top layer of skin.

Everything you need to know about treating a burned finger

A person may get a first degree burn on the fingers after touching hot food, a curling or straightening iron, or hot cookware.

Burns can present differently depending on a person’s skin tone. However, the symptoms will typically include a burning or painful sensation and mild swelling. First degree burns are unlikely to cause blisters, but the affected area may appear red or discolored in some people.

A second degree burn is more severe than a first degree burn.

In addition to affecting the top layer of skin, a second degree burn partially damages the underlying layer, which is called the dermis.

Some common second degree burn symptoms in children include:

Third degree burns are the most severe and will likely require specialized treatment.

Burns of this severity destroy both the epidermis and dermis. The symptoms can vary according to the cause and the person’s skin type, but they may include: