Burns (Skin Burns) - Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Medically reviewed by Dr. Anand S. Urhekar, MD, MD Pathology, Clinical Advisor · Last updated July 2026
Injury to the skin caused by heat, scalds, chemicals, electricity, friction or radiation. Burns are classified by depth — superficial, superficial partial thickness, deep partial thickness and full thickness — and by the percentage of body surface involved, which together determine treatment and whether specialist burns care is needed.
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Quick Answer
For any burn, first aid is the same: cool the burn under cool running water for 20 minutes, remove jewellery and non-stuck clothing, cover with cling film lengthways, and keep the person warm. Do not use ice, butter or creams. Seek hospital care for burns larger than the palm of the hand, any burn to the face, hands, feet, genitals or across a joint, all chemical and electrical burns, and any burn in a child or older adult.
Symptoms
- Superficial: red, painful, dry skin with no blisters
- Superficial partial thickness: blisters, very painful, moist
- Deep partial thickness: blotchy red or white, reduced sensation
- Full thickness: white, brown or charred, leathery, painless
- Swelling that increases over the first 24 hours
Causes & Risk Factors
- Hot liquids and steam (scalds — the most common in children)
- Flame and direct contact with hot objects
- Chemicals — acids and alkalis
- Electricity
- Sunburn and radiation
Treatment & Management
- Cool running water for 20 minutes, effective up to 3 hours after injury
- Cling film applied lengthways, not wrapped tightly
- Simple analgesia
- Do not burst blisters; do not apply ice, butter, toothpaste or ointments before assessment
- Hospital assessment, specialist dressings, tetanus cover, and surgery or grafting for deep burns
When to See a Doctor
Attend emergency care for burns larger than the patient's palm, any full-thickness burn, burns to the face, hands, feet, genitals or over a joint, all chemical and electrical burns, burns with inhalation of smoke, and any significant burn in a child, older adult or pregnant woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I cool a burn?
Twenty minutes under cool — not ice-cold — running water. This remains beneficial up to three hours after the injury and reduces burn depth and scarring. Keep the rest of the body warm to avoid hypothermia, especially in children.
Should I pop burn blisters?
No. Intact blisters protect the wound and reduce infection risk. A clinician will decide whether large or awkwardly positioned blisters need de-roofing under sterile conditions.
Medical References
Information on this page is sourced from and verified against reputable medical resources:
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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content on this page should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper medical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of your condition.