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Burns and scalds are wounds caused by heat that damages your skin.

Minor burns and scalds only damage the upper layers of skin. The deeper layers are undamaged, so your skin can heal itself. Minor burns are divided into:¹

• First-degree burns (such as mild sunburns). These affect only the very top layer, called the epidermis.
• Second-degree burns. These extend into the second skin layer, called the dermis.

The ones we are looking at are called superficial , partial-thickness burns. They extend only into the top part of the dermis.

Children and old people are most likely to get burns and scalds. It's very common for children to have accidents that lead to burns and scalds. They often get injured at home by:

• Boiling water from pots, pans or kettles
• Very hot drinks, such as freshly brewed tea or coffee
• Steam from steamers or kettles
• Hot plates, hot rings, oven doors
• Hot irons
• Hot baths
• Hot faucets.

Children are most likely to get injured in the kitchen. It's important to keep an eye on children in the kitchen, especially if you're cooking or making hot drinks. Older people are more likely to be scalded by hot water in the bathroom.

Young men are also quite likely to burn themselves, through accidents involving fire, electricity or liquids that can easily catch fire, such as gasoline.²

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.