First-degree burns are superficial skin burns that are dry, red, and usually do not blister. [1] X Trustworthy Source University of Rochester Medical Center Leading academic medical center in the U. S. focused on clinical care and research Go to source Mild sunburns are examples of first-degree burns, and these can be treated at home. Second-degree burns are more severe than first degree, penetrating past the first layer of skin. These burns are red, blistered, swollen, and usually painful. [2] X Trustworthy Source University of Rochester Medical Center Leading academic medical center in the U. S. focused on clinical care and research Go to source Some second-degree burns can be treated at home—for example, a severe sunburn from a day at the beach. Third-degree burns are much more severe than second degree burns, destroying the first layer of skin and most of the layers underneath. These burns are white and charred. [3] X Trustworthy Source University of Rochester Medical Center Leading academic medical center in the U. S. focused on clinical care and research Go to source Nearly all third-degree burns must be treated by a medical professional.
If you’re trying to conserve water, dampen a hand towel with cool water and compress the burn for about 10 minutes instead. [5] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source For second-degree burns, keep cooling the burn until the pain and swelling goes down. This may take more than 10 minutes. [6] X Research source
You can also use aloe vera instead of petroleum jelly, so long as you keep reapplying either until the redness fades. [8] X Research source
Make sure to head to the nearest emergency medical facility immediately, or call your local emergency providers. [9] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
