What is a common sign of a superficial burn?

A common sign of a superficial burn is red or pink discoloration of the skin. Superficial burns, also known as first-degree burns, affect only the outer layer of skin (epidermis). When this layer is damaged, it typically presents with redness due to increased blood flow in response to the injury. The skin may feel warm and tender to the touch, and while there can be some mild swelling, the primary characteristic remains the redness.

In contrast, blisters usually indicate a deeper skin injury, such as a second or third-degree burn. Decreased or no pain is not characteristic of superficial burns, as they are generally quite painful due to the exposed nerve endings in the epidermis. Charred skin is indicative of a fourth-degree burn, which extends through all layers of the skin and into underlying tissues. Thus, the distinctive feature of a superficial burn is the presence of red or pink discoloration, which helps differentiate it from more severe burn injuries.