If the skin is exposed to high heat the damage to the skin is called a burn. They can be caused by an oven, fire, electricity, chemicals or anything that comes in contact with the skin of high heat. Most people suffer from minor burns at some point in their lives and they normally heal quite quickly. However there are more serious types of burns that need medical attention. Burns are split into 3 categories as detailed below:

• First-degree burns - affects the outer layer of the skin only causing pain and redness
• Second-degree burns – also affects the layer below the outer layer of skin, causing pain, redness, and blisters that may ooze
• Third-degree burns - affects all layers of the skin and may also damage the underlying bones, muscles, and tendons. The burn site appears pale, charred, or leathery and there is generally no sensation in the area because the nerve endings are destroyed.

The treatment for the burns will depend on the level of severity. If you have third degree burns then you will need to seek emergency medical attention. In the meantime you should not remove clothing and run cold water on the affected area. If you have a lower level of burn you should run cool water on it for around 5-10 minutes and if required take pain killers to reduce the discomfort. Remember not to burst any blisters that may appear on the skin.

If you have suffered severe burns your body may be lacking vital nutrients and so you may need to take supplements or herbal remedies in order to support your body. If you are going to take any supplements and are also getting medical treatment it is a good idea to inform your doctor to make sure they will not interfere or react with any medication you are taking.

If you have pain from your burns then acupuncture or T.E.N.S therapy could really help with this. Other therapies that could help with the pain are hypnosis and therapeutic touch. People who have severe burns may also suffer from anxiety related to the condition and massage therapy has been shown to be beneficial to help with this.