Heat, fire, electricity, chemicals or the sun can cause skin burns. The American Academy of Family Physicians reports that there are three degrees by which burns are measured, from first degree to third degree. The type of treatments for a skin burn depends on how deeply the skin is damaged. First-degree burns are superficial and typically heal quickly; while third-degree burns have damaged all layers of the skin. Second-degree burns tend to be the most painful because nerves are still intact.
First-degree Burns
First-degree burns usually are red and turn white when pressed. They are painful and typically swell. The skin that's left on the top often peels off within a day or two, and a first-degree burn often heals within three to six days. Most first-degree burns can be treated at home. As long as the burn is not larger than two to three inches in diameter and it isn't on the face, genitals, hands or feet, home remedies usually are sufficient. The burned skin should be soaked in cool water for five to 10 minutes and then treated with an antiseptic ointment or aloe vera cream. A dry, sterilized gauze bandage can be used to cover the burn and protect it from infection. Over-the-counter pain relievers typically are enough to manage the pain.
Second-degree Burns
Small second-degree burns also do not typically require professional medical attention--though any burns on the face, hands, feet or genitals should be treated by a health care professional. The burn should be soaked in cool water immediately for at least 15 minutes. Butter or ice should never be applied to burns. After rubbing an antibiotic cream on the skin burn, it can be covered with a non-stick dressing. The burn should be covered with a cool, clean cloth for a few minutes, changing the dressing every day until it heals. Watch the burn for signs of infection that could appear as pus coming from the wound, redness, increased pain or additional swelling. A doctor must treat infections, say the professionals at the American Academy of Family Physicians. The burned area should not be scratched, and blisters must remain intact.
Third-degree Burns
Third-degree burns and chemical burns of any severity require professional medical attention because of the possible consequences of infection. Skin can become permanently disfigured if not treated properly. Clothing or material that's touching the burn should be left intact. No water or ointment should be applied before seeing a physician. The National Institutes of Health recommends checking the burned victim for signs of shock and making sure that the person is still breathing when burned badly. A clean, dry cloth may cover the burns until professional treatment is administered. Doctors clean the wound and treat it with sterile ointments. The burned skin is surgically removed, and the patient is checked for other signs of trauma.
