Burns can be caused by a number of incidents and accidents. When severe, they require medical attention and take time to heal. Minor burns can be treated at home. Regardless of the severity of skin burns, they will leave scars. Depending on how deeply they go into the skin, there are a number of remedies available. Burns are painful when they first occur because they cause damage to the nerve endings on the surface. They make it difficult for the body to retain heat and fluid. Infections can cause complications. Once they begin to heal, they can be treated with scar removal products to lessen their prominence.

Causes

When there is direct contact with a hot item about 130 degrees F, it will cause a burn. Skin damage can be caused by contact with hot fluids, grease, metal, steam, plastic and other types of direct heat contact. Caustic substance, such as acid and other chemicals can also cause burns and damage to the skin. Indirect contact from high energy, such as radiation or the sun is another cause. The treatment for each of these types is similar. Extreme wind and cold can also cause skin to burn. The amount of time it takes to heal depends on the type, depth and severity of the burn, the size of the victim and their skin condition beforehand.

Degrees

For treatment purposes, a burn is usually classified in three categories by degree. The higher the number, the more severe the injury.

• First degree is damage to the dermis, or second outer layer of skin. The surface is not penetrated and can still protect the body.

• Second degree is notable by raised, fluid-filled blisters. The outer layer of skin, called the epidermis, will separate and fall away. Nerves are damaged and cause intense pain. They should be treated by a medical professional. Scar creams can be used after a time to help reduce scarring.

• Third degree is damage to the dermis and epidermis. Nerve damage is extensive and may prevent the victim from feeling any pain. It may turn numb and black, denoting death of the cells.

Treatments

First degree burns are considered superficial, not medical emergencies. They can be treated at home with cold water, ice, ointment and scar cream. The second or third degrees should be treated by a healthcare professional. Once the scars have started to heal, they may be treated with surgery, cryotherapy, skin grafts, laser resurfacing and silicone scar gel.