What type of burns do sunburns fall under?

Sunburns are classified as first-degree burns, which affect only the outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. This type of burn results in redness, minor swelling, and discomfort, but does not typically cause blisters or damage deeper layers of skin. The healing process for first-degree burns is relatively quick, often resolving within a few days without significant medical intervention.

In contrast, second-degree burns involve damage to both the epidermis and part of the dermis, leading to blisters, severe pain, and longer healing times. Third-degree burns penetrate through the dermis and affect deeper tissues, typically causing a loss of sensation in the burned area due to nerve damage and requiring extensive medical treatment. Fourth-degree burns are the most severe, extending through all layers of skin and underlying tissues, often necessitating surgical intervention and resulting in significant functional impairment.

Given these distinctions, the classification of sunburns as first-degree burns is accurate, as they align with the symptoms and healing characteristics associated with this type of burn.