First aid in case of chemical burns

Chemical burns can occur when direct contact with corrosive substances, such as acids, caustic soda, other strong cleaning products, diluents or gasoline, for example.

Normally, after the burn the skin becomes very red and with a burning sensation, however, these signs can take up to a few hours to appear.

Thus, when contact with a corrosive chemical substance is advised that:

1. Remove the chemical that is causing the burn, using gloves and a clean cloth, for example;
2. Remove all clothing and accessories contaminated with the chemical;
3. Place the place under cold water for at least 10 minutes. In some cases it may be more practical to take an icy shower;
4. Apply a clean gauze or bandage without squeezing too much. Another option is to put a little paper film on the spot, but without squeezing too much;

In addition, if the burn continues to cause pain for a long time, analgesics such as Paracetamol or Naproxen may be used to relieve discomfort.

If you have been taking the tetanus vaccine for more than 10 years, it is advised to go to the emergency room or clinic to have the vaccination done again and avoid possible infection.

How To Treat Burn

In the days after the burn it is important to avoid exposing the skin to the sun, as well as avoiding close contact with heat sources such as ovens or entering hot cars parked in the sun.

In addition, a good moisturizing cream, such as Nivea or Mustela, for example, should be applied every day to moisturize the skin and facilitate the healing process.

Learn more about how to make dressings in case of skin burns.

When to go to the doctor

In many cases, chemical burns can be treated at home without any specific medical treatment. However, it is recommended to go to the emergency room when:

• Other symptoms appear such as fainting, fever or difficulty breathing;
• Pain and discomfort increase with time;
• The burn affects more than the first layer of skin;
• The burned area is larger than a span;
• The burn happened in the eyes, hands, feet or in the intimate region.

Hospital treatment may involve use of serum in the vein and in some cases it may even be necessary to rebuild burned skin with plastic surgery.