Which burn type affects both the epidermis and dermis layers of skin?

A partial-thickness burn affects both the epidermis and the dermis layers of the skin. This type of burn is characterized by damage that extends beyond the outer layer (epidermis) and infiltrates into the second layer (dermis). As a result, partial-thickness burns can lead to symptoms like redness, swelling, and blistering, along with significant pain because the nerve endings within the dermis are still intact.

In contrast, superficial burns only impact the epidermis, causing minor damage and typically healing within a few days without significant discomfort. Full-thickness burns extend through the entire skin layers—both the epidermis and dermis—often affecting deeper structures, resulting in a loss of sensation in the affected area due to damaged nerve endings. The term "slight burn" is not a standard classification in burn assessment, making it less relevant in this context. Thus, the identification of partial-thickness burns is essential for appropriate treatment and understanding of the burn's severity.