Minor burns
Minor burns typically encompass the range of smaller burns categorized by redness, swelling and topical pain. If your burn is larger in nature and has caused loss of skin layers, appearing blackened, charred or white, please seek immediate emergency care.
Burn treatments
Although many minor injuries can heal on their own, some require our medical help.
It's important to know when a wound is severe enough to require medical treatment. In the event of a minor burn, the compassionate specialists at MD Now® urgent care centers focus on getting you on the road to recovery.
Related specialties
Learn more about our related specialties.
Care for minor burns at our clinics
Our specialists work hard to provide effective treatments for minor and severe burns.
Types of burn wounds
Accidental burns can happen at any time. Knowing and identifying the different types of burns can be crucial for seeking proper medical care.
Burn wounds are tissue damage caused by exposure to hot objects or liquids, chemicals, radiation, electrical currents, sunlight or tanning beds. Burns are classified according to the depth of the skin damage:
First-degree burns
First-degree burns only affect the outermost layer of skin, known as the epidermis, which can cause redness and pain.
Second-degree burns
Second-degree burns penetrate both the epidermis and the dermis underneath. The skin may swell and appear red, white or splotchy. It is common for blisters to develop and for the pain to be severe. Because the damage penetrates deeper into the skin, there is an increased risk of scarring.
Third-degree burns
Third-degree burns penetrate to the subcutaneous fat beneath the skin. The affected area may be brown, black or white and have a leathery appearance.
When to see a doctor for burn treatment
You should seek emergency medical treatment for any burns that:
- Affect your airway or cause difficulty breathing
- Are caused by electricity or chemicals
- Appear deep or have the characteristics of a third-degree burn
- Affect your face, hands, feet, groin or major joints
- Cover large portions of your body
Burn care
Burn treatment varies based on the location and severity of the tissue damage. In the case of severe burns, treatment may include:
- Assistance with breathing and feeding
- Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration
- Medication for pain and infection control
- Reconstructive surgery
- Skin grafts
- Special dressings and therapies to stimulate healing
The content provided on the MD Now® website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for receiving medical care and treatment from a qualified healthcare provider. Never delay seeking advice, evaluation and treatment from a medical professional because of what you've read on this site.