What indicates that a person has sustained a superficial burn?

A superficial burn, also known as a first-degree burn, typically affects only the outer layer of skin, the epidermis. The characteristic features of a superficial burn include redness, dryness, and pain. These burns generally do not cause blisters, and the skin remains intact. The redness is due to increased blood flow to the area as part of the body's inflammatory response. Pain is a significant symptom of superficial burns, as the nerve endings in the epidermis can be irritated by the heat and damage.

In contrast, burns that present with blisters indicate a deeper injury, which is characteristic of second-degree burns. Blackened burns suggest a more severe injury, often associated with third-degree burns, where tissue is destroyed, and sensation may be absent due to nerve damage. A burn that does not hurt at all is likely to be a deeper burn as well, positioned beyond the superficial layer where nerve endings could be affected. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for assessing the severity of burns and formulating appropriate treatments.