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A burn is damage to your body's tissues caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, sunlight, or radiation. Scalds from hot liquids and steam, building fires and flammable liquids and gases are the most common causes of burns. Another kind is an inhalation injury, caused by breathing smoke. There are three types of burns:
What is a superficial burn? A superficial burn, or first-degree burn, is when the outer layer of skin has been burned. What causes a superficial burn? Direct exposure to heat is the most common cause of superficial burn. This includes contact with hot objects or flames, such as an iron, a skillet, cigarettes, or fireworks. The following may also cause a superficial burn: 1  Harsh chemicals, such as cleaning products, car battery acid, gasoline, lime, or chlorine. 2  Damaged electrical cords or electrical outlets. 3  Hot water or steam. 4  Sunburns or tanning beds.