What does a first-degree burn primarily affect?

A first-degree burn primarily affects the outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. This type of burn is characterized by redness, minor swelling, and pain, which are all confined to this superficial layer. The skin may appear dry but typically does not form blisters, which helps distinguish first-degree burns from more severe burns that impact deeper skin layers.

Since first-degree burns only involve the epidermis, they often heal within a few days without significant medical intervention. The absence of damage to the underlying structures, such as the dermis and deeper tissues, is a critical factor in how these burns are treated and their recovery outcomes. This level of burn is less severe than second-degree or third-degree burns, which affect deeper layers of the skin and can lead to more significant complications and longer healing times.