You may be surprised to learn that the skin is the largest organ in the body and one of its main functions is to regulate the body’s temperature. It also prevents the evaporation of bodily fluids and acts as a barrier against infections and other harmful external conditions. Damage to the skin from burns can be minor or they can present a life-threatening emergency, depending on the intensity and length of heat exposure. The extent of the damage is categorized according to the depth of the injury to the skin. First-degree burns involve the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis) and healing occurs relatively quickly. Second-degree burns occur when injury reaches the second layer of skin (dermis) – pain and accompanying symptoms can be intense and scarring is common. Third-degree burns involve the third and last layer of skin (hypodermis) – extensive tissue damage and scarring occurs, injuries are slow to heal, and movement and function are likely impaired.