Second-degree burn: Superficial partial-thickness burn

Cross section of skin on lower arm, with burn in epidermis and top part of dermis layers.

A superficial second-degree burn injures the top layer of skin (epidermis) and may injure a small area of the tissue (dermis) below the skin.

Current as of: November 16, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.