What is an abrasion?

An abrasion is defined as a scrape of the skin that occurs when the outer layers of skin are removed due to friction or contact with a rough surface or material. This type of injury usually does not penetrate deeply into the skin and typically involves only the epidermis, which is the outer layer. Abrasions are common in various situations, such as falls, road rash from a bicycle accident, or contact sports.

In contrast to more serious injuries, such as cuts or lacerations caused by sharp objects, abrasions are often less severe and may heal without the need for professional medical intervention, although they should still be cleaned to prevent infection. Understanding the nature of abrasions helps in applying appropriate first aid and recognizing their typical healing process.