Causes of a Second Degree Burn

A second-degree burn is a burn that causes injury to not only the epidermis, which is the uppermost layer of skin, but extends deeper into the dermis. Often, second-degree burns can receive the same treatment as first-degree burns, depending on the actual severity of the burn. In fact, you can often tend to minor second-degree burns at home.

Fire

• Fire is the most well-known cause of second degree burns.

  Fire is perhaps the first thing that comes to mind when you think of second-degree burns. Fire is one of the causes of thermal burns and can be the result of any number of accidents intentional or otherwise. Taking the proper precautions when handling flammable items can lessen the chances of being burned by fire. In addition, knowing the proper way to put out a fire is important to reduce the risk and severity of second-degree burns; particularly if you, your hair or clothing have physically caught fire.

Scalding

• Hot water or steam are often more dangerous than they look.

  Hot liquids and steam are a common cause of severe burns, and according to the "USA Today" Health Encyclopedia, scalding burns are the second most common cause of serious burns. These burns can be a result of a number of accidents and non-accidents that range from scalding hot bath water to spilling hot coffee. When cooking, scalding that leads to second-degree burns may occur if fluids, such as hot oil or water, spill or splatter. Escaped steam that comes in contact with your skin is another cause of second-degree burns. These types of thermal burns are not restricted to the home or kitchen and may occur under numerous settings; take care whenever in the presence of hot liquids.

Chemicals

• Household chemicals like bleach can cause second-degree burns.

  Improper handling of everyday household items or chemical-based items in the workplace can result in second-degree chemical burns. Chemicals that can cause burns are often made from caustic substances that continue to damage the skin long after initial contact. Take care when using items such as bleach, toilet bowl or drain cleaners and pool chlorinators, for example. Avoid second-degree burns with proper handling and by reading the instructions for use listed on the bottle or container. In the event that you do spill chemicals, such as bleach, on your skin, follow the removal directions exactly as listed on the product. Seek medical help immediately, particularly if the chemical is swallowed.

The Sun

• Excessive exposure to the sun can lead to second-degree burns.

  Overexposure to the sun often leads to sunburns. This may be harmless but in some cases, such as sleeping out in the sun without proper protection, the resulting burn may be deep enough to be classified as a second-degree burn. Prevent this type of burn by reducing sun exposure and wearing the proper protection, whether that is sunscreen, protective clothing or both.