How to Treat a Chemical Burn on the Face

Most chemical burns are caused by acids like those found in batteries. A facial burn is especially dangerous because it can affect the eyesight. To treat a chemical burn on the face, you should start by following the steps below, then seek professional medical assistance.

Instructions

• 1

  Remove any jewelry or clothing that has the chemical on it. As you do this, try not to spread the chemical to other areas or onto other people.

• 2

  Run cool running water over the chemical burn for at least fifteen minutes to flush the chemicals off the skin.

• 3

  Prepare a cool, wet compress from wet paper towels or pieces of cloth. Apply to the chemical burn to relieve some of the pain.

• 4

  Protect the chemical burn from further irritation by applying a dry sterile dressing. If that is not handy, a dry clean cloth will do. If your eyes are injured, close them before you apply the dressing.

• 5

  Seek medical help immediately. Even though a minor chemical burn can heal on its own, you should have a medical professional look at it. He can dress the chemical burn professionally and prescribe pain medication if it is needed. Facial burns may also cause unsightly scars and seeing a medical professional for treatment can minimize them.