The temperature at which human skin burns depends on the duration of exposure.
- Short exposure: A temperature of 54 degrees C (130 degrees F) can cause a full-thickness skin burn in just 30 seconds.
- Longer exposure: Temperatures as low as 52 degrees C (125 degrees F) can cause a full-thickness skin burn after 2 minutes.
However, the temperature threshold for a burn can vary depending on factors such as:
- Individual sensitivity: Some people are more sensitive to heat than others.
- Thickness of skin: Thinner skin, like that on the eyelids or the back of the hand, is more susceptible to burns.
- Type of heat source: Dry heat, like that from a stovetop, can cause burns at lower temperatures than moist heat, like that from hot water.
It's important to note that even temperatures below those listed above can cause skin damage with prolonged exposure. For example, temperatures around 44 degrees C (111 degrees F) can cause irreversible injury after 6 hours.
