BURNS

Leading Burn Care & Treatment in Tarzana

Burns are a type of traumatic injury caused by thermal, electrical, chemical, or electromagnetic energy. Most burn accidents occur at home. Many others occur at work. According to American Burn Association – Burn Care & Resources, more than two million burn injuries occur each year in the U.S., resulting in 100,000 to 300,000 hospitalization.

At Castle Dermatology Institute, our Tarzana dermatologists and medical dermatology specialists provide expert evaluation and care for all types of burns. Whether it’s a minor burn treatment or more severe care, we offer personalized plans to restore skin health and prevent long-term complications. Learn more about our medical dermatology services and burn care options.

Types of Burns

A burn injury usually results from an energy transfer to the body. There are many types of burns caused by thermal, radiation, chemical, or electrical contact:

  • thermal burns – burns due to external heat sources which raise the temperature of the skin and tissues and cause tissue cell death or charring. Hot metals, scalding liquids, steam, and flames, when coming in contact with the skin, can cause thermal burns.

  • radiation burns – burns due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays of the sun, or to other sources of radiation such as x-ray.

  • chemical burns – burns due to strong acids, alkalies, detergents, or solvents coming into contact with the skin and/or eyes.

  • electrical burns – burns from electrical current, either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC).

Burns are classified as first-, second-, or third-degree, depending on how deep and severe they penetrate the skin’s surface:

  • First-degree (superficial) burns
    First-degree burns affect only the epidermis, or outer layer of skin. The burn site is red, painful, dry, and with no blisters. Mild sunburn is an example. Long-term tissue damage is rare and usually consists of an increase or decrease in the skin color.
  • Second-degree (partial thickness) burns
    Second-degree burns involve the epidermis and part of the dermis layer of skin. The burn site appears red, blistered, and may be swollen and painful.
  • Third-degree (full thickness) burns
    Third-degree burns destroy the epidermis and dermis. Third-degree burns may also damage the underlying bones, muscles, and tendons. The burn site appears white or charred. There is no sensation in the area since the nerve endings are destroyed.

Restore your skin health and minimize complications with expert care from our Tarzana dermatologists. Book your burn treatment consultation today.

FAQ's - Burns

  1. What should I do immediately after a burn?
     For minor burns, run cool water over the area for several minutes and cover it with a sterile bandage. For severe burns, seek immediate care from a burn specialist.

  2. Are all burns treated the same way?
     No. Treatment depends on the type and degree of burn, the size and location, and the patient’s overall health.

  3. Can burns cause long-term skin damage?
     Yes, second- and third-degree burns can result in scarring, pigmentation changes, and functional impairment. Early intervention by a dermatologist can minimize complications.

  4. Do burn injuries require surgery?
     Some deep burns may require surgical interventions such as skin grafts, while minor burns typically heal with non-invasive treatment from a  medical dermatologist.