Second-Degree Burns

A second-degree burn, as its name implies, is more serious than a first-degree burn and extends deeper into the skin to affect the papillary and reticular dermis of the skin. Some blistering of the skin and more intense pain than first-degree burns is to be expected with a second-degree burn, which may be caused by directly exposing the skin to open flame or other high-heat source. Because a second-degree burn may extend deep enough into the skin to damage nerve endings, it is not unusual for these burns to initially seem only mildly painful. However, once the nerve endings in the skin have recovered, the sensation of pain will increase. Extensive second degree burns can be very serious and usually require medical care.