A second-degree sunburn extends beyond the skin’s surface, affecting both the outer layer (the epidermis) and the layer beneath it (the dermis). This level of damage requires immediate and careful attention to manage pain, prevent infection, and support the body’s healing processes. Understanding how to properly treat this injury at home can help minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of long-term complications. This guide provides safe and effective care for a partial-thickness burn caused by sun exposure.
Recognizing a Second Degree Sunburn
A second-degree sunburn is characterized by specific signs that differentiate it from a milder, first-degree burn. This deeper injury results in intense pain, along with significant swelling of the affected area. The skin will typically appear deeply red or discolored, often with a shiny or moist appearance due to the damage extending into the dermis layer.
The most distinctive feature is the formation of fluid-filled blisters. These blisters are a direct response to the heat injury, indicating that the damage has penetrated the top layers of skin. Recognizing these symptoms accurately is the first step toward implementing the correct treatment protocol.
Immediate Steps for Systemic Relief
The first priority in treating a second-degree burn is to halt the burning process and address the body’s systemic reaction to the injury. Immediately cooling the affected area helps reduce skin temperature, limiting the depth of tissue damage and providing significant pain relief. This can be accomplished by taking a cool bath or shower, or by applying cool, wet compresses to the skin for 10 to 30 minutes. Use cool, not ice-cold, water and avoid applying ice directly to the skin, as this can cause further tissue injury.
Managing the widespread inflammation and pain is accomplished through over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen. Taking these medications helps reduce swelling and discomfort by targeting the inflammatory response. Sunburns can lead to systemic dehydration, so increasing fluid intake is necessary. Drinking plenty of water and electrolyte-containing beverages helps the body recover from the fluid loss associated with a significant burn.
Localized Care and Blister Management
The blisters that form on a second-degree sunburn are a biological barrier that protects the damaged dermis underneath from infection. For this reason, it is important to leave all intact blisters undisturbed, as popping them exposes the raw tissue to the environment. If a blister breaks naturally, the overlying skin flap should be left in place to act as a temporary dressing, and the area should be gently cleaned with mild soap and water.
Once cleaned, the burn needs to be kept moist and covered to prevent infection and promote healing. Applying a thin layer of a gentle, non-medicated moisturizing agent, such as plain petroleum jelly, can create a protective barrier over the wound. The area should then be covered with a sterile, non-stick dressing to prevent clothing from adhering to the compromised skin. Changing this dressing daily, or whenever it becomes wet or soiled, helps maintain a clean healing environment and prevents bacterial contamination.
When to Seek Professional Medical Attention
While many second-degree sunburns can be managed at home, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical intervention. Seek immediate care if the burn covers a large surface area of the body, such as the face, hands, feet, groin, or any area larger than 10% of the total body surface. These locations are particularly vulnerable and require specialized assessment and treatment.
Signs of a severe systemic reaction include a fever above 101 degrees Fahrenheit, chills, extreme weakness, or confusion. Watch for signs of infection in the burn area, including increasing pain, spreading redness, the presence of pus, or a foul odor. If the pain becomes unmanageable with over-the-counter medication, or if the burn does not show signs of healing within a few days, a doctor’s visit is necessary for professional wound care and pain management.