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First-degree burn

A first-degree burn is a minor red burn of the top layer of skin, such as a mild sunburn. The burned skin may hurt and be slightly swollen, and it may make a person feel slightly feverish.

First-degree burns usually heal with home treatment in about 3 to 5 days. They do not usually cause blisters or scars.

Author Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Editor Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD
- Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer H. Michael O'Connor, MD
- Emergency Medicine
Last Updated February 2, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 02, 2007
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