How to Wash a Chemical Burn

A chemical burn refers to tissue damage resulting from exposure to a strong acid or alkaline substance. Depending on the strength of the chemical and the extent of exposure, the severity of a chemical burn can range from slight to life-threatening. In any instance of chemical exposure, first aid should be administered immediately to limit any potential damage to the affected tissue. Preventing chemical burns may be difficult, but proper first aid treatment is effective and inexpensive.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Dry gauze bandage
• First aid kit

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Remove any clothing or jewelry that may have been exposed. When removing exposed clothing, wear chemical-resistant gloves to prevent additional exposure. For third-degree burns, seek immediate medical care, and do not remove any clothing stuck to the burned area.

• 2

  Flush the exposed area with copious amounts of cool water at low pressure, for a period of at least 15 minutes, or until medical assistance arrives. Do not touch or rub the area while flushing it with water. If the chemical is a dry powder, gently brush it away from the area prior to washing.

• 3

  Cover the burned area with a dry gauze bandage to prevent further irritation. Larger burns can be covered with a clean cloth secured with surgical tape or gauze. Avoid applying any skin ointment to the burned area.

• 4

  Check the burn daily. Contact your health care provider if you notice increased pain, redness, swelling or pus, as these may be signs of infection. Do not break any blisters that may form over burned tissue.