How long does it take for burned skin to return to normal?

Generally, it takes 1 to 6 months for burned skin to recover to a normal state, with the exact duration depending on the depth of the burn and the care provided. Seek medical attention promptly if any abnormalities occur. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Superficial burns affect only the epidermis, presenting as localized redness, swelling, and pain, without blisters or with small blisters. These burns heal relatively quickly. If cooled immediately with cold water and treated with burn ointment to protect the wound, they typically form scabs that fall off within 1 to 2 weeks. The newly formed skin has minimal color difference from surrounding tissue and usually returns to normal within 1 month.

Deep burns involve damage to the dermis or deeper layers, characterized by large blisters and pale or yellowish-brown wounds. Such burns are prone to scarring after healing. Without infection, superficial second-degree burns take about 2–3 weeks to heal, while deep second-degree burns require 3–4 weeks. If hypertrophic scarring occurs, recovery may extend to 3–6 months, and the skin’s color and texture might differ from normal skin, requiring laser therapy or medication to improve appearance.

During the healing process, keep the wound clean and avoid scratching or friction to prevent infection and further injury. Maintain a light diet rich in vitamin C and protein to promote skin repair. Seek immediate medical care if symptoms such as increased wound discharge, foul odor, or fever develop.