What indicates that a burn is a full thickness burn?

A full thickness burn, also known as a third-degree burn, is characterized by the destruction of both the epidermis and the dermis, potentially reaching the underlying fat, muscle, or bone. The appearance of full thickness burns is typically white or charred skin. This occurs because the heat has effectively removed the blood supply and burnt away the skin layers, leading to a lack of sensation in the area, as nerve endings are most often destroyed.

The presence of white or charred tissue indicates that the burn injury is severe, and it will require significant medical intervention, often including surgical intervention or skin grafting. This emphasizes the seriousness of the burn, as opposed to other types of burns, which display signs of redness, blisters, or swelling, indicating less severe damage to the skin and underlying tissues.