The skin is usually red, with swelling and pain sometimes present. The outer layer of skin has not been burned through, though. Treat a first-degree burn as a minor burn unless it involves substantial portions of the hands, feet, face, groin, buttocks or a major joint.
Blisters develop and the skin takes on an intensely reddened, splotchy appearance.
Second-degree burns produce severe pain and swelling. If the burn is no larger than 2 to 3 inches in diameter, treat it as a minor burn. If the burned area is larger or if the burn is on the hands, feet, face, groin, buttocks or a major joint, get medical help immediately. Cool the burn. Hold the burned area under cold running water for 15 minutes.