How would you describe a first-degree burn?

A first-degree burn is characterized by mild damage to the skin, primarily affecting only the outer layer, known as the epidermis. This type of burn typically presents with redness, minor swelling, and discomfort, but without the formation of blisters. It is often caused by brief exposure to heat sources, such as sunburn or a quick brush against a hot object. The skin generally heals within a few days without significant medical intervention, making this description accurate in defining the characteristics of a first-degree burn.

The other options describe different burn types or causes; for instance, a severe burn that blisters indicates a second-degree burn, while deep burns affecting all skin layers align more with third-degree burns. Additionally, chemical burns pertain to injuries caused by harmful substances and are not classified by degrees of burns based solely on heat or thermal exposure.