What is the degree of a second-degree burn?

Nov 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

In general, second-degree burns, also known as partial-thickness burns, extend through the epidermis and into part of the dermis. The wound should be kept clean and dry during care, and blisters should be protected from breaking. If a blister accidentally ruptures, use a sterile cotton swab to gently remove the exudate. Wear loose, breathable clothing to minimize friction on the affected area. In terms of diet, consume foods rich in protein and vitamins to support wound healing.

Generally, second-degree burns, also known as partial-thickness burns, involve damage to both the epidermis and part of the dermis. A detailed explanation is as follows:

Second-degree burns affect the superficial layer of the dermis and are characterized by obvious redness and swelling of the wound, accompanied by blisters of varying sizes and severe pain. When high temperature acts on the skin, epidermal cells die instantly, and heat continues to penetrate into the dermis, damaging capillaries and nerve endings within the dermis. Increased vascular permeability leads to exudation of tissue fluid, forming blisters. Exposed nerve endings become stimulated, causing intense pain. Although such burns do not extend through the full thickness of the skin, the dermal tissue has been damaged and requires proper medical care to prevent infection and scar formation.

For care, keep the wound clean and dry, and avoid breaking any blisters. If a blister accidentally ruptures, gently wipe away the exudate using a sterile cotton swab. Wear loose, breathable clothing to minimize friction on the wound. In terms of diet, consume foods rich in protein and vitamins to support wound healing. Avoid direct sunlight exposure to the injured area to prevent hyperpigmentation. If signs such as increased redness and swelling, pus discharge, or fever occur, seek medical attention promptly. Do not apply irritating medications on your own, as this may impair healing.

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Which wounds do not leave scars?

Under normal circumstances, scars refer to cicatricial formations. Superficial abrasions, small sterile wounds, first-degree burns, superficial second-degree burns, and small wounds in individuals without a predisposition to scarring typically do not leave scars. To reduce scar formation, patients should also pay attention to dietary adjustments and changes in lifestyle during the wound healing period, such as avoiding spicy, raw, or other irritating foods, going to bed early and waking up early, and refraining from smoking and drinking alcohol.

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Does a second-degree burn represent a burn of the epidermis?

Second-degree burns do not necessarily involve only the epidermis. In superficial second-degree burns, tissue damage is mainly confined to the upper to deeper layers of the epidermis. The wound typically develops blisters; after blister rupture or removal, a moist, red wound surface is revealed, accompanied by significant pain. In such cases, the burn primarily involves the epidermis, healing is relatively rapid, and obvious scarring usually does not occur.

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Is tilapia fish skin truly effective for treating burns?

If the burn is mild, such as a superficial second-degree burn with a small surface area, applying tilapia fish skin that meets medical standards over the wound after professional treatment can help protect the wound, reduce the risk of infection, and promote healing, showing certain effectiveness in such cases. However, if the burn is severe or covers a large area, using tilapia fish skin alone cannot meet the treatment requirements and may delay proper medical care.

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Can a 50% burn injury be recovered from?

If 50% of the burn area consists mainly of superficial second-degree burns, and if the patient is young, in good baseline health, and receives timely standardized treatment—including professional wound debridement and infection control—the wounds are likely to gradually heal. However, if 50% of the burn includes a high proportion of deep second-degree and third-degree burns, especially in older patients or those with underlying medical conditions, and if treatment is delayed leading to complications such as infection or shock, the prognosis may be significantly worse.