Will a first-degree burn leave a scar?
Nov 05, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, whether a first-degree burn will leave a scar depends on post-burn care and individual differences. After a burn, the affected area should immediately be rinsed under cool water for 15–20 minutes. Avoid applying irritating ointments or folk remedies to the wound. During recovery, protect the area from sun exposure to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation. If signs of infection such as redness, swelling, increased pain, or fluid discharge appear at the wound site.
Generally, whether a first-degree burn will leave a scar depends on the post-burn care and individual differences. The specific analysis is as follows:
If proper care is provided after a first-degree burn—such as promptly cooling the area with running cold water, keeping the wound clean and dry, avoiding infection or damage—and if the individual has strong skin regeneration ability, scarring typically does not occur. First-degree burns only affect the outermost layer of the skin, which can gradually heal through the body's natural repair mechanisms, usually without leaving noticeable marks.
However, improper care after a first-degree burn—such as failing to cool the area promptly, exposing the wound to unclean objects leading to infection, or having inherently weak skin healing capacity—may result in pigmentation changes, and in rare cases, minor scarring. Infection disrupts the normal healing process and causes abnormal tissue regeneration, increasing the likelihood of scarring.
After a burn, immediately rinse the affected area under cool running water for 15–20 minutes. Avoid using irritating ointments or folk remedies on the wound. During recovery, protect the area from sun exposure to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation. If signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or discharge appear, seek medical attention promptly and follow professional advice for treatment and care.
