Scalding that causes the skin to peel off is classified as a second-degree burn.

Written by Li Xiao Lin
Emergency Department
Updated on January 14, 2025
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Burns that result in skin peeling must be examined case by case, as it is impossible to generalize. The classification depends on the size of the burn and the severity of the injury.

If the burn only results in peeling skin, indicating damage to the epidermis, it is considered a superficial second-degree burn. If the damage extends below the dermis, it is considered a deep second-degree burn. If there is damage to deeper tissues, it could potentially be a third-degree burn. Furthermore, if the area of skin peeling due to the burn is extensive, it may be considered deep second-degree or more severe.

Therefore, immediate actions should be taken following a burn, such as rinsing with cold water for at least 30 minutes or until the pain subsides. Then, thoroughly disinfect the area with iodine to prevent infection. Applying burn ointment on the surface may help in the recovery of the burn. If necessary, cover it with a sterile gauze to prevent contact infections that could lead to skin infection. Attention should also be paid to diet; drink plenty of water, eat fresh vegetables and fruits, consume high-protein and high-nutrient foods, supplement with vitamins, and avoid spicy and stimulating foods.

Other Voices

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Written by Chen Xiao Jun
Emergency Department
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What should I do if the circulation is poor after a finger scald?

After a finger is scalded and circulation is poor, it is necessary to improve this by constantly changing the dressing. Poor circulation after scalding affects the recovery of finger skin and the formation of new skin. If poor circulation is observed after a scald, it is crucial to intensify dressing changes, even remove necrotic tissue, and promote the growth of granulation tissue. When necessary, relevant medications can be used to remove decay and generate new muscle, improve microcirculation, and promote the regeneration of skin and muscle.

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Written by Li Xiao Lin
Emergency Department
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Scalding that causes the skin to peel off is classified as a second-degree burn.

Burns that result in skin peeling must be examined case by case, as it is impossible to generalize. The classification depends on the size of the burn and the severity of the injury. If the burn only results in peeling skin, indicating damage to the epidermis, it is considered a superficial second-degree burn. If the damage extends below the dermis, it is considered a deep second-degree burn. If there is damage to deeper tissues, it could potentially be a third-degree burn. Furthermore, if the area of skin peeling due to the burn is extensive, it may be considered deep second-degree or more severe. Therefore, immediate actions should be taken following a burn, such as rinsing with cold water for at least 30 minutes or until the pain subsides. Then, thoroughly disinfect the area with iodine to prevent infection. Applying burn ointment on the surface may help in the recovery of the burn. If necessary, cover it with a sterile gauze to prevent contact infections that could lead to skin infection. Attention should also be paid to diet; drink plenty of water, eat fresh vegetables and fruits, consume high-protein and high-nutrient foods, supplement with vitamins, and avoid spicy and stimulating foods.

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Written by Zhang Jian Bo
Dermatology
1min 11sec home-news-image

How long does it take for a deep second-degree burn to heal?

Second-degree burns generally require three to four weeks to heal. The healing time for burn wounds depends on the depth of the burn. Second-degree burns include both superficial partial-thickness and deep partial-thickness burns. Superficial partial-thickness burns involve blistering of the upper dermis. The blisters are relatively full, and the base of the wound is red and moist with substantial exudation. There is significant swelling and severe pain. Under non-infected conditions, superficial partial-thickness burns generally heal within two weeks without scarring. Deep partial-thickness burns affect the deeper layer of the dermis. Blistering in this case tends to be relatively flat, and the base of the wound appears red and white, sometimes showing a net-like pattern of vessel thrombosis. These wounds have less elasticity and the pain is less intense. Deep partial-thickness burns generally take three to four weeks to heal and leave scars. Therefore, formal anti-scarring treatment is required after healing of a deep partial-thickness burn.

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Written by Li Xiao Lin
Emergency Department
43sec home-news-image

Can a burnt finger heal?

Whether a burnt finger can heal depends on the severity of the burn; we cannot generalize. If the burn affects only the epidermis, it should heal quite well and can fully recover. However, if the burn reaches the dermis beneath the skin, healing can still occur but will take longer and may leave some complications and scarring. Scarring can restrict movement of the finger and affect its appearance. If the burn is very deep, below the dermis, and affects nerves and blood vessels, the healing capacity will be significantly reduced. Healing may be poor, affecting the function or mobility of the finger, leading to severe impairment similar to paralysis. In severe cases, amputation might be necessary.

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Written by Li Xiao Lin
Emergency Department
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Should the burned skin on the finger be cut off?

Whether to cut off the skin after a finger burn depends on the specific circumstances and cannot be generalized. It depends on the cause of the finger burn. If the burn is caused by relatively clean boiling water, the skin does not need to be cut off after disinfection. The skin acts as a protective layer, similar to a dressing, which can reduce contact with foreign objects and minimize damage to the burn from external particles or foreign objects, therefore providing certain protection. However, if the burn is caused by contaminated substances, such as lime, and the finger is contaminated, the previously burned skin should be cut off. After cleaning, it is considered a foreign object that could potentially worsen an infection.