What is a first-degree burn?

A burn is damage to tissues of the body caused by contact with things such as heat, radiation, or chemicals. A first-degree burn affects only the outer layer of skin (epidermis). 

What causes a first-degree burn in a child?

The causes of a first-degree burn can include:

• Mild sunburn

• Very hot water

• Hot object, like a pot or pan

What are the symptoms of a first-degree burn in a child?

Symptoms can occur a bit differently in each child. Symptoms can include skin that is:

• Red

• Dry

• Peeling

• Painful for 48 to 72 hours and then feels better

The symptoms of a first-degree burn can be like other health conditions. If you have any question about the cause or severity of the symptoms, take your child to their healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

How is a first-degree burn diagnosed in a child?

The healthcare provider will ask about your child’s symptoms and health history. They will give your child a physical exam. The diagnosis of a first-degree burn is based on the signs and symptoms, and recent exposure to something that can cause a burn. This may be the sun, something hot, or a chemical.

How is a first-degree burn treated in a child?

Treatment will depend on your child’s symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how much of the child's body is burned and how severe the condition is.

A first-degree burn usually heals on its own within a week. Treatment may include:

• A wet cloth soaked with cold water (cold compress) held to the skin, to ease pain

• Do not apply butter, grease, or powder to the burn.

• Over-the-counter medicine, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, for pain and swelling, Follow the label directions for how much to give and how often.

• Any other treatment advised by your child’s healthcare provider

First-degree burns are usually not bandaged.

What are possible complications of a first-degree burn in a child?

Long-term tissue damage is rare and may be an increase or decrease in the skin color. In some cases, the area may become infected.

What can I do to prevent a first-degree burn in my child?

The following are some of ways to prevent burns in children:

• Keep your child out of the sun. Use sunscreen when your child is old enough, usually at 6 months.

• Make sure hot water is set below 120°F (48.8°C).

• Put covers on electrical outlets.

• Make sure pot and pan handles are turned toward the back of the stove.

• Set up a “kid-free zone” in your kitchen. Teach children to stay at least 3 feet away from the cooking area.

• Teach older kids how to cook safely.

• Check bathwater temperature before placing a child in the water.

• When bathing children, place them facing away from the water faucet so they won’t accidentally turn on the hot water.

• Be careful with hot drinks.

• Keep hot appliances in safe places, out of a child's reach, and unplugged when not in use. This includes toasters, irons, and hair-styling tools.

• Teach children never to play with matches and lighters and keep these items out of reach of children.

When should I call my child's healthcare provider?

Call your child's healthcare provider if:

• Your child has a fever

• There is fluid leaking from the burn area

• There is increased swelling or redness of the burn area

• A large area of your child's body is burned

Key points about a first-degree burn in children

• First-degree burns affect only the outer layer of the skin.

• They may be caused by the sun, hot water, or hot objects.

• They are treated by applying cold, like running water or a cold cloth, at first. Creams or lotions may be applied.

Next steps

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your child’s healthcare provider:

• Know the reason for the visit and what you want to happen.

• Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.

• At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you for your child.

• Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed and how it will help your child. Also know what the side effects are.

• Ask if your child’s condition can be treated in other ways.

• Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.

• Know what to expect if your child does not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.

• If your child has a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.

• Know how you can contact your child’s provider after office hours.