Which burn type damages the outer layer and may cause redness and pain?

The correct answer is the first-degree burn, which is characterized by damage confined to the outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. This type of burn typically results in redness, mild swelling, and pain, similar to what one might experience from a sunburn. The superficial nature of a first-degree burn means that it usually heals quite well without long-term effects, often within a week.

In contrast, second-degree burns affect both the epidermis and the underlying layer, the dermis, leading to more severe symptoms like blistering, swelling, and greater pain. Third-degree burns extend further into the deeper layers of skin and may damage nerves, resulting in a loss of sensation in the burned area. Fourth-degree burns are the most severe, penetrating through the skin and affecting underlying tissues, including muscle and bone, often resulting in significant damage.

Understanding the progression of burn degrees helps in assessing the level of injury and determining the appropriate medical treatment needed.