The skin protects us from the invasion of infective agents, gaseous, liquid and solid foreign substances in general, mechanical injury, radiation damage, but also from the loss of liquids, electrolytes and proteins. This loss causes life-threatening complications in burns. Burns can result from exposure to heat, electricity, radiation or chemicals. There are three grades of burns. In first grade burns the outer layer of the skin, called the epidermis, is reddend, sensitive to touch and often swollen. Medical treatment is not necessary, but the application of a lotion can alleviate pain. Second grade burns result in a variable destruction of the epidermis and formation of blisters. Nerve ends can be exposed. Severe cases should be seen by a doctor to avoid inflammation. Local therapy contains the application of a lotion containing silver nitrate.