What's the difference between first, second & third-degree burns?

It can take just a moment to get the kind of burn that will take days to heal.

Whether you touch something hot on the stove, get in the steam while straining just-cooked pasta, or are escaping from a fire, burns are serious business.

But how can you tell the difference between first, second and third-degree burns? Here’s a quick look at the symptoms that may be experienced, and typical treatments when the heat gets close enough to hurt.

Here’s a brief overview of the three types of burns, including the various symptoms that may be experienced — along with typical treatments — based on information from the CDC.

First-degree burns

First-degree burns involve the top layer of skin. Sunburn is just one example of a first-degree burn.

Signs of a first-degree burn:

Red
Painful to touch
Skin will show mild swelling

Treatment for first-degree burns:

Apply cool, wet compresses, or immerse in cool, fresh water. Continue until pain subsides.
Cover the burn with a sterile, non-adhesive bandage or clean cloth.
Do not apply ointments or butter to burn; these may cause infection.
Over-the-counter pain medications may be used to help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
First-degree burns usually heal without further treatment. However, if a first-degree burn covers a large area of the body, or the victim is an infant or elderly, seek emergency medical attention.

First-degree burns - diagram

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Second-degree burns

Second-degree burns involve the first two layers of skin.

Signs of a second-degree burn:

Deep reddening of the skin
Pain
Blisters
Glossy appearance from leaking fluid
Possible loss of some skin

Treatment for second-degree burns:

Immerse in fresh, cool water, or apply cool compresses. Continue for 10 to 15 minutes.
Dry with a clean cloth, and cover with sterile gauze.
Do not break blisters.
Do not apply ointments or butter to burns; these may cause infection
Elevate burned arms or legs
Take steps to prevent shock: lay the victim flat, elevate the feet about 12 inches, and cover the victim with a coat or blanket. Do not place the victim in the shock position if a head, neck, back, or leg injury is suspected, or if it makes the victim uncomfortable.
Further medical treatment is required. Do not attempt to treat serious burns unless you are a trained health professional.

Second-degree burns - diagram

Third-degree burns

A third-degree burn penetrates the entire thickness of the skin, and permanently destroys tissue.

Signs of a third-degree burn:

Loss of skin layers
Often painless. (Pain may be caused by patches of first- and second-degree burns, which often surround third-degree burns)
Skin is dry and leathery
Skin may appear charred or have patches that appear white, brown or black.

Treatment for third-degree burns:

Cover burn lightly with sterile gauze or clean cloth. (Don’t use a material that can leave lint on the burn).
Do not apply ointments or butter to burns; these may cause infection
Take steps to prevent shock: lay the victim flat, elevate the feet about 12 inches.
Have the person sit up if the face is burned. Watch closely for possible breathing problems.
Elevate burned area higher than the victim’s head when possible. Keep the person warm and comfortable, and watch for signs of shock.
Do not place a pillow under the victim’s head if the person is lying down and there is an airway burn. This can close the airway.
Immediate medical attention is required. Do not attempt to treat serious burns unless you are a trained health professional.

Third-degree burns - diagram