There are many types of burns

* Heat burns ( thermal burns ) are caused by fire, steam, hot objects, or hot liquids. Scald burns from hot liquids are most common burns in children and older adults.

* Cold temperature burns are caused by skin exposure to wet, windy, or cold conditions.

* Electrical burns are caused by contact with house hold or industrial chemicals in a liquid, solid, or gas form. Natural foods such as chili peppers, which contain a substance irritating to the skin, can cause a burning sensation.

* Radiation burns are caused by the sun, tanning booths, sunlamps, X-rays, or radiation therapy for Cancer treatment.

* Friction burns are caused by contact with any hard surface such as roads ( road rash ), carpets, or gym floor surfaces.

Motorcycle or bicycle riders who have road accidents while not wearing any or enough protective clothing also may get severe friction burns.