Minor burns and scalds only damage the upper layers of skin. The deeper layers are undamaged, so your skin can heal itself. Minor burns are divided into:

 

 

 

 

 

Source:
Cleland H.
Burns.
In: Dermatology, Version 2. Therapeutic Guidelines, Melbourne, Australia; 2004.

 

 

 

 

 

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The ones we are looking at are called superficial, partial-thickness burns. They extend only into the top part of the dermis.

Children and old people are most likely to get burns and scalds. It's very common for children to have accidents that lead to burns and scalds. They often get injured at home by:

Children are most likely to get injured in the kitchen. It's important to keep an eye on children in the kitchen, especially if you're cooking or making hot drinks. Older people are more likely to be scalded by hot water in the bathroom.

Young men are also quite likely to burn themselves, through accidents involving fire, electricity, or liquids that can easily catch fire, such as gasoline.

 

 

 

 

 

Source:
Haertsch PA.
Burn injuries.
Australian Doctor. 2003; 8: 37-44.

 

 

 

 

 

²

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