Each year, two million Americans suffer significant burns each year, of which seventy-five thousand are serious, and of these, ten thousand end fatally. In the United States, burns are the third leading cause of accidental death. Burns are classified as to depth or degree of damage to the skin.

In a first-degree burn, only the outer layer of the skin is damaged. The skin is red, tender, and slightly swollen, but there are no blisters. Among common causes of first-degree burn are mild sunburn and mild exposure to steam, hot water, or direct heat. The skin heals quickly without leaving any scarring.

In a second-degree burn, both the outer layer and deep layer of the skin are injured, causing redness, swelling, blisters, severe pain, and loss of tissue fluid. Causes include severe sunburn, boiling liquids, steam, corrosive chemicals, and electricity. Extensive burns may result in systematic effects, such as shock and infections. The deep layer is not totally destroyed, so the skin will regenerate without extensive scar formation.

In a third-degree burn, the outer and deep layers of the skin are completely destroyed, and the burned skin is insensitive. In severe cases, the underlying tissues, such as muscles, are also damaged. Causes include burning clothes, exposure to flames from fire, ignited gasoline, prolonged contact with hot objects, and electricity. The skin will not regenerate in the center, but only around the edges of the burn. Scarring may be extensive, especially when skin grafting is not successful.

The seriousness of a burn does not depend alone on whether it is a first, second, or third-degree burn, but also on the extent of the body’s surface that is involved. As a rule, children with burns extending over ten percent, and adults over fifteen percent of their skin surface should be hospitalized. Burns on the face and inhalation burns should receive immediate attention from a medical professional.

Home Treatment For Burns

- For a first-degree burn, relief of discomfort is the number one priority. Immersing the burned area in cold water gives relief and kickstarts the healing process. You can also help the pain by applying a non-greasy ointment containing a mild anesthetic.

- For a second-degree burn, the main point of attack is to relieve pain, attempt to control infection, and prevent shock. (Please seek medical help)!

- For a third-degree burn, the all around care is the same as for a second-degree burn, except that shock may be inevitable. (Please seek immediate medical attention)!

Home Remedy For Burns

Aloe – Apply an aloe gel or juice compress to the burn for two days after the injury have taken place. For first-degree burns, two or three days of treatment will be suitable. However, for more severe burns, please consult a doctor. Aloe manages to accelerate skin regeneration in the burned area, as well as reducing scarring to a minimum.

Castor Bean – Used externally, both the oil and the seeds of this medicinal plant have emollient and healing properties. They are applied for eczema, herpes, wounds, burns, skin rashes, and to fight hair loss. Use this herbal remedy in the form of lotions and poultices.