There are three types of burns: first degree burns, second degree burns and third degree burns. These burns are named as such due to how many layers of skin are affected by the heat source. A first degree burn is a mild burn on the first layer of skin, or epidermis. A second degree burn has happened once the first and second layers of the skin are damaged, and a third degree burn happens beyond that.
The simplest and most harmless of burns, a first degree burn can happen by staying out in the sun unprotected for too long, touching a hot oven, or brief contact with a hot surface.
The difference between a first degree burn and second degree burn is that your skin stays mostly intact with a first degree burn, whereas a second degree burn will mean that your first layer of skin will blister and bubble as the second layer of skin is damaged.
A third degree burn is the most serious stage of injury, as all layers of skin are likely to have been damaged, as well as muscles, tendons, ligaments and possibly organs. Generally a third degree burn will affect the reticular dermis, which is the deepest layer of skin, and will require serious medical attention.
If you have suffered burns as part of your personal injury, then call our Specialist Advice Centre on 0844 854 5090 .