Common causes of superficial burns and scalds

A superficial burn is when the outer layer of skin is burnt causing redness, tenderness and inflammation.

A superficial burn typically occurs due to brief contact with a heat source. The most common causes include:

• Sun exposure: Prolonged or intense exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays can cause superficial burns, often referred to as sunburn
• Hot liquids: Scalds from hot water or other liquids, often occurring in kitchen accidents, are a frequent cause of superficial burns
• Steam: Exposure to steam, such as opening a hot pot or kettle, can lead to a superficial burn
• Brief contact with a hot object: Touching hot objects like a stove, iron, or heated hair tools for a short period can result in a first-degree burn
• Mild electrical burns: Contact with low-voltage electricity can sometimes cause superficial burns