Chemical Burns: Care Instructions

Overview

Burns can occur when a harmful chemical, such as a cleaning product or an acid, splashes onto the skin. The amount of damage to the skin depends on how strong the chemical was, how much of it was on the skin, and how long it was there. Chemical burns, even minor ones, can be very painful. A minor burn may heal within a few days. But a more serious burn may take weeks or even months to heal completely.

When the skin is damaged by a burn, it may become infected. You can help prevent infection and help your burn heal. Keep the burn clean, and change the bandages often. Taking good care of the burn as it heals may help prevent bad scars.

The treatment for most chemical burns is to remove the chemical from the skin by flushing the area with plenty of water. But some chemicals can't be removed with water. They may need to be removed from the skin in other ways by the doctor.

The doctor has checked your skin carefully, but problems can develop later. If you notice any problems or new symptoms, get medical treatment right away.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• If your doctor told you how to care for the burn, follow your doctor's instructions. If you did not get instructions, follow this general advice:
  • Wash the burn every day with a mild soap and water. Don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol. They can slow healing.
  • Gently pat the burn dry after you wash it.
  • You may cover the burn with a thin layer of petroleum jelly on the burn.
  • You may cover the burn with a nonstick bandage. There are many bandage products available. Be sure to read the product label for correct use.
  • Replace the bandage as needed.
  • Avoid using an antibiotic ointment unless your doctor recommends it.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • Store your prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
• Don't break blisters open. Breaking them increases the chance of infection. If a blister breaks open by itself, blot up the liquid, and leave the skin that covered the blister. This helps protect the new skin.
• If the burn itches, try not to scratch it. Try an over-the-counter antihistamine. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• Your pain gets worse.
• You have symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness near the burn.
  • Red streaks leading from the burn.
  • Pus draining from the burn.
  • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• The burn is not getting better each day.