The most usual kind of burn wound is a thermal burn, resulting from exposure to scalding water, fire, or hot objects (including the sun). Another type of burn injury are chemical burn injuries.

Burn injuries include harm to nerve tissue, muscle and skin, and sometimes even bones. Burn injuries are frequently associated to other traumatic injuries, such as fractures or other complications due to surgery or smoke inhalation.

One method to classify a burn wound is by depth of the injury. This is classification is useful for making clinical decisions and when giving a prognosis for recovery. There are 3 degrees that define burns:

- A first-degree burn is a superficial injury. It includes only the external layer of the skin.

- A second-degree burn compromises the epidermal layer and a part of the dermis.

- A third-degree burn, or full-thickness burn, includes the epidermis, the entire dermis, skin appendages, and sometimes deeper tissue. Such a burn, even when it includes a minor surface area, usually requires hospitalization.

Recovery from a burn wound requires a highly specialized and effective skin treatment. Open wounds must be meticulously cared for to prevent infection and to promote healing as fast as possible. Therapy may include respiratory treatment, speech therapy, swallowing therapy, and closely monitored nutrient and fluid intake.

As a burn wound becomes less acute, other problems need intervention. These include emotional support, daily living and walking skills, the building of a new self-image, the incorporation of previous leisure interests, tissue flexibility and re-adjustment to family and community life.

Weakened burn scars tissue will vary from a reddish to white tone while stretching. Be sure to pay extra attention to these areas because they can get much tighter if you do not stretch them regularly.

Cured burn wounds, grafts, and donor sites are highly sensitive to direct sunlight and need special skin care measures. These areas can become very dry and also burn very quickly. After burn wounds have healed, you must avoid direct sunlight exposure for at least 6 months. After those first six months, it is okay to allow short sunlight exposures. It is vital to apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Apply the sunscreen approximately 30 minutes before sun exposure. Also, try not to be under the sun between (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Try to stay out of direct sunlight and reapply sunscreen often. You can gradually increase your exposure to sunlight over a period of time.