A 2nd degree burn is painful and can easily leave scars. With the right first aid and consistent aftercare, you can give your skin the best chance to recover. In this guide, you’ll learn about second degree burn treatment and what matters most in the healing process.
A second-degree burn damages the epidermis (outer skin layer) and reaches into the dermis (the layer underneath). The skin looks red, moist and is usually very painful. Blisters are common and need careful protection.
Within second-degree burns, healthcare professionals distinguish between two types:
If you are unsure how serious a burn is: speak to your GP, call 111 or get help from 111 online. In an emergency, such as a large or deep burn, or one caused by chemicals or electricity, call 999 immediately.
Quick and correct first aid can minimise the damage to your skin and reduce the risk of complications. These first aid recommendations align with trusted healthcare sources, including the NHS. For detailed official advice, visit the NHS website.
For the best healing result, follow these steps:
For the best result, cool the burn as quickly as possible:
Burn blisters are the body’s natural way of protecting damaged skin. The clear fluid inside keeps the wound moist and shields it against infection. For the best healing result, follow these steps:
Burned skin is extremely vulnerable. Sun exposure after burn increases the risk of scarring and slows healing. Cover the area and avoid sunlight for at least two years after the burn.
Pain from 2nd degree burns can be intense. Over-the-counter medication such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help ease discomfort.
Elevating the burned area can also reduce swelling and pressure-related pain.
Small burns can often be treated at home, but you should seek medical help if:
Once a second-degree burn has closed, aftercare becomes essential. The skin then passes through three natural healing phases.
In the first, inflammatory phase, which lasts a few days, the body reacts with redness, swelling and warmth as the immune system works to prevent infection.
During the repair phase, usually between one and three weeks, damaged tissue is cleared away while new cells and blood vessels are formed; the wound gradually closes.
This is followed by the remodelling phase, which can last for weeks to months. In this stage, collagen fibres are reorganised so that the scar becomes stronger and flatter. Good scar care during this period makes the biggest difference.
During this recovery, the skin often feels dry, itchy and tight. Without good hydration, the chance of visible scarring increases.
A good medical moisturising cream helps keep the skin hydrated, making it feel more comfortable. Studies show that hydration reduces redness and itch and helps the skin stay flexible. ALHYDRAN is developed for this purpose and supports scar healing by improving skin elasticity and soothing irritation.
For a superficial second-degree burn, you can usually begin after about two weeks, once the wound has fully closed.
In the case of a deep second-degree burn, it often takes around six weeks before scar care can start. Always consult a healthcare professional before applying a cream in these situations.
Hydrates, softens and helps prevent scarring
I have used ALHYDRAN cream for a burn on my hand. The burn has healed nicely and is nearly no longer visible.
Recently I had a serious accident, now I have 1st and 2nd degree burns on my chest and stomach. After applying ALHYDRAN I felt a strong relief of the itching, pain and dryness of my bandaged skin. Within a few days my skin became smoother and the scars faded.
ALHYDRAN is a great product. I'm using it after an ugly burn on my hand. The visual result is fantastic! Never thought it would be that good. Thanks.
Burn scars can continue changing for months or years. Ongoing care helps prevent raised or thickened scars. Options include:
Healing skin is delicate. Follow these practical tips:
Be alert for persistent itch or tightness. Regular hydration can help relieve these symptoms. If the complaints remain severe, consult your doctor.
Good first aid and consistent aftercare can reduce scarring and support better healing.
No. You should not use ALHYDRAN on open wounds, or skin perforated by stitches that has not yet healed. Start using ALHYDRAN immediately after wound closure.
Apply 3 times a day: in the morning, at midday, and in the evening. If your skin is very dry, you can apply more often. A thin layer is sufficient.
Yes. Research shows that ALHYDRAN can be safely combined with pressure garments or silicone sheets. This combination supports skin recovery and helps to reduce scar formation.
Burn scars can last for a long time and, in many cases, are permanent. How they change over time depends on factors such as burn depth, wound healing, and scar care.
After a burn wound closes, scar tissue forms. This tissue often grows in an uncontrolled way and can remain visible, thick, red, or tight for months to years.
Without proper treatment, scars may become abnormal (hypertrophic scars or keloids), which can last indefinitely and cause complaints like itching, pain, or restricted movement.
With good aftercare, including hydration and scar management, scars generally fade, soften, and become less noticeable over time. However, even faded scars usually do not disappear completely.
Burn scars can improve for years but rarely vanish entirely. Hydration & UV protection can help scars fade faster, reduce complaints (itching, redness, tightness), and prevent abnormal scar growth.
We believe it is important that our claims are backed by evidence. The information we share is based on scientific research, clinical studies, and specialist experience worldwide.
