Treating Different Types of Burns: Thermal vs. Chemical vs. Electrical

Burn injuries are among the most common household and workplace accidents, and they can vary widely in severity. Understanding the different types of burns — thermal, chemical, and electrical — and knowing the appropriate treatment for each is crucial for effective first aid and medical care.

The basics of burns

A burn is an injury to skin, and possible underlying tissues, caused by an exposure to extreme heat, chemicals, or electrical contact. The severity of the burn is related to its depth and size. Deeper burns that result in blistering or broken skin are more severe. Additionally, larger burns — even those with a shallow depth — are also more serious.

The most common degrees of burns are labeled as:

• First-degree burns. Superficial burns that affect the top layer of skin, also called epidermis (e.g., mild sunburn).
• Second-degree burns. Mild to moderate burn injury that damages the top and inner layers of the skin (epidermis and dermis).
• Third-degree burns. Severe injury that destroys all layers of skin and subcutaneous tissue.

However, there are additional classifications of burns that are considered medical emergencies that can have serious consequences as they can cause significant or permanent damage to the tendons, nerves, muscles, and bones.

What to know about thermal burns

Thermal burns can occur when the skin comes into direct contact with heat sources such as open flames, hot liquids, steam, and hot surfaces or objects. They can also be caused by radiant heat from a hot environment or extended exposure to the sun.

The severity of thermal burns can range from minor to severe, depending on the heat's intensity and the duration of exposure.

How to treat minor thermal burns

For minor thermal burns, use cold water (but not ice-cold) to cool the burn as soon as possible for at least ten minutes. Cooling the burn helps to reduce pain, swelling, and the depth of injury.

Continue cooling at least until the pain is relieved. Then, loosely cover the burn with a dry, non-stick sterile or clean dressing.

Here are some additional notes about treating thermal burns:

• Don’t apply ice directly to a burn.
• Use a cool or cold (not freezing) clean compress if cool water isn’t available.
• Leave burn blisters intact to improve healing and reduce pain.
• Avoid natural burn remedies (e.g., honey or potato peels).
• Don’t apply butter, ointment, lotion, or antiseptic to serious burns.

How to treat severe thermal burns

Thermal burns involving the face, neck, hands, genitals, joints, and feet can result in complications.

For severe thermal burns, call 911. Carefully remove any jewelry and clothing that isn’t stuck to the skin. Immediately cool the burns with cool running water for at least 20 minutes or until EMS providers take over.

What to know about chemical burns

Chemical burns occur when the skin or eyes come into contact with an irritant, such as strong acids or corrosive substances. These burns can cause extensive tissue damage and require specific first aid measures.

How to treat chemical burns: Skin burns vs. eye burns

For chemical skin burns, brush off any dry chemical powder first. If you add water to dry chemical powders, you risk making them corrosive and capable of burning or destroying skin.

Corrosive liquid chemicals (e.g., concentrated sulfuric acid) immediately damage skin tissue. So, you must act quickly.

1. Remove any clothing contaminated with corrosive liquid chemicals to minimize continued exposure.
2. Immediately flood the affected area with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes.

If the corrosive chemical splashes into an eye, hold the eye open while flushing outward from the nose side of the affected eye to prevent contamination of the unaffected eye.

What to know about electrical burns

Electric burns can occur when there’s direct contact with an energized object, such as being struck by lightning or touching an electrical wire or outlet.

How to treat electrical burns

First and foremost, scene safety is a top priority when responding to a medical emergency involving electricity. Always turn off any electrical current before touching the person. If you’re unable to stop the flow of electricity, do not enter the area or attempt to provide care.

If the scene is safe, here are some key considerations to keep in mind when treating an electric burn:

• An electric shock can cause cardiac arrest or other internal damage that may not be immediately visible.
• Monitor the victim for signs of shock, respiratory issues or other complications, and be prepared to perform CPR if necessary.
• Look for external burns at common points of contact, such as the hands and feet. Cool the external burns similar to treating a thermal burn.

Electrical burns require prompt medical evaluation. Even if the burn appears minor, internal injuries may necessitate additional medical treatment.

Burn prevention 101

While burns are painful and can lead to devastating and costly injuries, the majority are preventable. Preventing burns involves awareness and education about common hazards.

• Be cautious around hot liquids, open flames, and hot surfaces. Use protective gear when handling hot objects or working in high-heat environments.
• Store chemicals safely and use appropriate protective equipment when handling corrosive substances. Ensure proper ventilation in areas where chemicals are used.
• Avoid contact with live electrical wires, and ensure electrical devices and wiring are properly maintained and insulated. Use caution during thunderstorms and avoid outdoor activities when lightning is a risk.

Burn recovery can be a lengthy process, especially for severe burns that might require skin grafts or physical therapy to restore movement and function. Therefore, prevention should be a priority at home and in the workplace.

Learn first aid care for burns and other medical emergencies

Burns require appropriate first aid and medical care based on the type of burn and its severity. Knowing how to treat different types of burns can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.

To take a CPR, AED, and First Aid class in your area, reach out to your local approved HSI Training Center to learn about in-person, online, and blended learning opportunities.