What are the signs of a 1st degree burn?

A first-degree burn primarily affects the outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. The most notable signs include superficial redness, which results from the increased blood flow to the area as part of the body's inflammatory response. This redness indicates that the skin is irritated but not severely damaged.

In addition to redness, a first-degree burn may also cause minor pain and swelling, but it does not lead to blisters or significant skin damage. It is usually a mild burn that can often be treated at home with simple first aid measures, like cool compresses and topical aloe or lotion. Understanding this helps in identifying the nature of the burn accurately and deciding on the appropriate course of treatment.