What causes chemical burns on skin. How to identify symptoms of chemical burns. What are the most effective treatments for chemical burns. How to prevent chemical burns at home and work. When to seek emergency care for chemical burns.

Understanding Chemical Burns: Types and Causes

Chemical burns are injuries to the skin, eyes, mouth, or internal organs resulting from contact with corrosive substances. These burns, also known as caustic burns, can occur in various settings, including homes, workplaces, and educational institutions. While fatalities from household chemical exposure are rare in the United States, many common substances can cause significant harm.

Chemical burns are classified based on the extent of damage:

• Superficial or first-degree burns: Affect only the outer layer of skin (epidermis)
• Partial thickness or second-degree burns: Extend into the second layer of skin (dermis)
• Full thickness or third-degree burns: Penetrate through the skin and may damage underlying tissue

Most chemical burns are caused by strong acids or bases. Common household products that can lead to chemical burns include:

• Ammonia
• Battery acid
• Bleach
• Concrete mix
• Drain or toilet bowl cleaners
• Metal cleaners
• Pool chlorinators
• Tooth-whitening products

Who is at risk for chemical burns?

While anyone can suffer from chemical burns, certain groups are at higher risk:

• Infants and young children exploring their environment
• Older adults
• Workers in industries that handle chemicals

Recognizing Chemical Burn Symptoms

Identifying chemical burn symptoms promptly is crucial for proper treatment. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Redness, irritation, or burning sensation at the contact site
• Pain or numbness in the affected area
• Formation of blisters or black dead skin
• Vision changes if chemicals enter the eyes
• Cough or shortness of breath

In severe cases, chemical burns may lead to more serious symptoms such as low blood pressure, breathing difficulties, cardiac arrest, or seizures.

Factors influencing chemical burn severity

The extent of tissue damage from chemical burns depends on several factors:

• Chemical concentration
• Site of contact (eye, skin, mucous membrane)
• Method of exposure (swallowed, inhaled, or skin contact)
• Skin integrity
• Amount of chemical exposure
• Duration of exposure
• Chemical’s mechanism of action

Emergency Care for Chemical Burns

All chemical burns should be treated as medical emergencies. Immediate action is crucial, especially for burns affecting the mouth or throat. When should you call 911 for a chemical burn? Consider seeking emergency care if:

• The burn is larger than 3 inches in diameter
• The burn appears deep
• The burn affects the face, eyes, groin, hands, feet, buttocks, or joints
• You’re unsure about the severity of the injury
• The person’s medical stability is in question

When contacting emergency services, provide as much information as possible, including:

• Number of injured individuals and their location
• How the injury occurred
• Accessibility of the victims
• Details about the chemical (name, strength, quantity)
• Duration of chemical contact

Chemical Burn Treatment Strategies

The treatment of chemical burns varies depending on the severity and location of the injury. However, some general steps can be taken immediately after exposure:

1. Remove the chemical source and any contaminated clothing
2. Rinse the affected area with copious amounts of cool water for at least 20 minutes
3. For dry chemicals, brush off any residual substance before rinsing
4. Cover the burn with a clean, dry dressing or cloth
5. Seek medical attention, especially for burns involving the eyes, large areas of skin, or if the burn appears severe

Medical treatment for chemical burns

Upon arrival at a medical facility, treatment may include:

• Further decontamination if necessary
• Pain management
• Wound cleaning and debridement
• Application of topical antibiotics or specialized dressings
• Intravenous fluids if dehydration is a concern
• Tetanus shot if needed
• Treatment of any systemic effects caused by chemical absorption

Preventing Chemical Burns: Safety Measures and Precautions

Prevention is key when it comes to chemical burns. How can you reduce the risk of chemical burns at home and in the workplace?

• Store chemicals in their original containers and out of reach of children
• Read and follow all safety instructions on chemical product labels
• Wear appropriate protective equipment when handling chemicals
• Ensure proper ventilation when using chemical products
• Never mix chemicals unless specifically instructed to do so
• Dispose of chemicals properly according to local regulations
• Install childproof locks on cabinets containing potentially hazardous substances
• Educate family members and coworkers about chemical safety

Workplace chemical safety

In industrial settings, additional precautions may be necessary:

• Implement comprehensive chemical safety training programs
• Regularly inspect and maintain chemical storage and handling equipment
• Provide easily accessible emergency eyewash stations and showers
• Develop and practice emergency response procedures for chemical spills or exposures
• Regularly review and update Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all chemicals used

Long-Term Care and Follow-Up for Chemical Burns

The recovery process for chemical burns can be lengthy, depending on the severity of the injury. What should you expect during the healing process?

• Regular wound care and dressing changes
• Monitoring for signs of infection
• Physical therapy to maintain mobility and prevent contractures
• Scar management techniques
• Psychological support to cope with trauma and potential disfigurement

Follow-up care is crucial for optimal healing and to prevent complications. How often should you see a healthcare provider after a chemical burn? This depends on the severity of the burn, but typically includes:

• Initial follow-up within 24-48 hours after treatment
• Weekly check-ups for the first few weeks
• Monthly visits until the burn is fully healed
• Long-term follow-up for severe burns or those requiring skin grafts

Potential Complications of Chemical Burns

While proper treatment can minimize risks, chemical burns can lead to various complications. What are the potential long-term effects of chemical burns?

• Scarring and disfigurement
• Contractures limiting joint mobility
• Chronic pain
• Increased sensitivity to temperature changes
• Psychological issues such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder
• Vision impairment or loss if eyes were affected
• Respiratory problems from inhalation of chemical fumes

In severe cases, chemical burns can lead to more serious complications:

• Systemic toxicity from chemical absorption
• Organ damage
• Sepsis
• Shock

Monitoring for complications

After a chemical burn, it’s important to watch for signs that may indicate complications:

• Increased pain, redness, or swelling at the burn site
• Fever
• Pus or foul-smelling discharge from the wound
• Difficulty breathing
• Changes in urination
• Unexplained fatigue or weakness

Chemical Burn First Aid: What to Do Before Help Arrives

Knowing how to provide immediate care for chemical burns can significantly impact the outcome. What steps should you take while waiting for professional medical help?

1. Ensure your own safety first. Don’t become a victim yourself.
2. If possible, identify the chemical involved.
3. Remove the person from the contaminated area.
4. Remove any clothing or jewelry that may have been contaminated.
5. Flush the affected area with cool running water for at least 20 minutes.
6. For dry chemicals, brush off any visible particles before flushing with water.
7. Cover the burn with a clean, dry cloth or sterile bandage.
8. Do not apply any creams, ointments, or butter to the burn.
9. If the eyes are affected, flush continuously with water and seek immediate medical attention.

What not to do

Certain actions can worsen chemical burns. Avoid the following:

• Using neutralizing agents (like acids for alkaline burns or vice versa) unless specifically instructed by a professional
• Removing any clothing that’s stuck to the burned area
• Breaking any blisters that have formed
• Applying ice directly to the burn
• Delaying medical treatment for severe burns

Chemical Burn Outlook: Recovery and Prognosis

The outlook for chemical burn victims varies greatly depending on the severity of the injury, the chemical involved, and how quickly treatment was received. What factors influence the recovery process?

• Depth and extent of the burn
• Location of the burn
• Type and concentration of the chemical
• Presence of other injuries or health conditions
• Age and overall health of the patient
• Quality and timeliness of medical care

For minor chemical burns, complete recovery is often possible with proper care. These burns may heal within a few days to weeks with minimal scarring. However, more severe burns can have long-lasting effects and may require extensive treatment, including skin grafts and reconstructive surgery.

Long-term prognosis

The long-term outlook for chemical burn victims depends on several factors:

• Physical recovery: This includes wound healing, management of scarring, and restoration of function in affected areas.
• Psychological recovery: Coping with trauma, body image issues, and potential lifestyle changes.
• Occupational impact: Some victims may need to change jobs or adapt their work environment, especially if the burn occurred in an occupational setting.
• Ongoing medical needs: Regular check-ups, possible reconstructive surgeries, and management of any chronic symptoms.

With advancements in burn care and rehabilitation techniques, many chemical burn victims can achieve significant improvement in both function and appearance over time. However, severe burns may result in permanent changes that require long-term adaptation and support.

Legal and Occupational Considerations in Chemical Burn Cases

Chemical burns that occur in the workplace or due to defective products may have legal implications. What should victims and their families consider in these situations?

• Workers’ compensation: If the burn occurred at work, the victim may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.
• Product liability: If a defective product caused the burn, the manufacturer or distributor may be held liable.
• Premises liability: Burns occurring due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property may lead to premises liability claims.
• Occupational safety violations: Employers may face penalties if the burn resulted from violations of safety regulations.

Steps to take in potential legal cases

If you believe your chemical burn may have legal implications, consider the following steps:

1. Document everything related to the incident, including photos of the injury and the scene.
2. Keep all medical records and receipts for treatment.
3. Report the incident to your employer or the appropriate authorities.
4. Gather contact information from any witnesses.
5. Preserve any evidence, such as the chemical container or faulty equipment.
6. Consult with a legal professional experienced in personal injury or workers’ compensation cases.

Remember that legal action should not delay seeking medical treatment. Your health and safety should always be the primary concern.

Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention, Care

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

Medically Reviewed by Jennifer Robinson, MD on September 07, 2022

• What Are Chemical Burns?
• Types of Chemical Burns
• Chemical Burn Causes and Risk Factors
• Chemical Burn Symptoms
• Emergency Medical Care for Chemical Burns
• Chemical Burn Diagnosis
• Chemical Burn Treatment
• Chemical Burn Follow-Up
• Chemical Burn Complications
• Chemical Burn Prevention
• Chemical Burn Outlook
• More

Chemical burns are injuries to the skin, eyes, mouth, or internal organs caused by contact with a corrosive substance. They may also be called caustic burns.

Chemical burns can happen in the home, at work, or at school. They can result from an accident or an assault. Although few people in the United States die after contact with chemicals in the home, many substances common in living areas and in storage areas can do serious harm.

Many chemical burns happen accidentally through misuse of products such as those for hair, skin, and nail care. Although injuries do happen at home, the risk of sustaining a chemical burn is much greater in the workplace, especially in businesses and manufacturing plants that use large quantities of chemicals.

Chemical burns are classified like other burns based on the amount of damage done:

• Superficial or first-degree burns only affect the outer layer of skin, called the epidermis. The area will be red and painful, but there usually is no permanent damage.
• Partial thickness or second-degree burns extend into the second layer of skin called the dermis. You may have blisters and swelling, and it may leave scars.
• Full thickness or third-degree burns go through the skin and may damage tissue underneath. The area may look black or white. Because nerves are destroyed, you may not feel pain.

Most chemicals that cause burns are either strong acids or bases. A glance at the medical information on the labels of dangerous chemicals confirms the expected toxicity. Commonsense precautions and consumer education can reduce your family’s risk of injury. A variety of household products can cause chemical burns, including:

• Ammonia
• Battery acid
• Bleach
• Concrete mix
• Drain or toilet bowl cleaners
• Metal cleaners
• Pool chlorinators
• Tooth-whitening products

Infants and older people are most at risk for burns. Chemical burns tend to happen to:

• Young children exploring their environments who get their hands on something dangerous
• People whose jobs put them in contact with chemicals

Chemical burn of the skin.

Chemical burn of the eye.

All chemical burns should be considered medical emergencies. If you have a chemical burn of the mouth or throat, call 911 and seek immediate medical attention.

Most chemical burns happen on the face, eyes, arms, and legs. Usually a chemical burn will be relatively small and will require only outpatient treatment. Chemical burns can be deceiving, however. Some agents can cause deep tissue damage not readily apparent when you first look at it.

Signs and symptoms of chemical burns include the following:

• Redness, irritation, or burning at the site of contact
• Pain or numbness at the site of contact
• Formation of blisters or black dead skin at the contact site
• Vision changes if the chemical gets into your eyes
• Cough or shortness of breath

Tissue damage from chemical burns depends on several things, including:

• The strength or concentration of the chemical
• The site of contact (eye, skin, mucous membrane)
• Whether it’s swallowed or inhaled
• Whether or not skin is intact
• How much of the chemical you came into contact with
• Duration of exposure
• How the chemical works

In serious cases, you may develop any of the following:

Any chemical burn can be a legitimate reason to get emergency medical help. Always call 911 if you don’t know how severe the injury is or whether or not the person is medically stable. Also call 911 if you have any concerns about a chemical injury.

Emergency personnel are trained to assess the extent of a chemical burn, begin treatment, and take patients to the hospital.

Emergency workers also may determine the need for more involved decontamination of both you and the accident site prior to going to the hospital. When you contact 911, tell the dispatcher as much of the following information as possible:

• How many people are injured and the location where they are
• How the injury happened
• Whether emergency personnel can reach the victims or whether the victims are trapped
• Name, strength, and volume or quantity of the chemical causing the burn (Give a container of the chemical to emergency personnel, if possible.)
• Length of time of contact with the chemical

Always seek emergency care for any burn that is larger than 3 inches in diameter or is very deep. Also seek emergency care for any chemical burns involving the face, eyes, groin, hands, feet, or buttocks or if it is over a joint.

Even if the exposure was very small and you have completed basic first aid, call your doctor to review the injury and the chemical involved and to make sure no further emergency treatment is needed. The doctor can arrange appropriate treatment or will direct you to go to a hospital’s emergency room. If you’re the person with the burn, ask your doctor if you need a tetanus shot.

In the emergency room, you can expect the following:

• Initial evaluation and stabilization
• Rapid evaluation of the chemical
• Determination of the extent of injury
• Blood tests and other studies to determine if you should be admitted to the hospital

Most people with chemical burns do not need to be admitted. Most can go home after arranging follow-up care with their doctor. In severe cases, however, they may need to be admitted to a hospital.

As soon as you or your child have contact with a dangerous chemical, begin basic first aid. Call Poison Control at 800-222-1222 if you do not know whether the chemical is toxic.

Immediately call 911 if you have a severe injury, any shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, or other symptoms throughout your body. If you are aiding an injured person with these symptoms, lay the person down and immediately call 911.

First aid

• Remove yourself or the person with the burn from the accident area.
• Remove any contaminated clothing.
• Wash the injured area to dilute or remove the substance, using large volumes of water. Wash for at least 20 minutes, taking care not to allow runoff to contact unaffected parts of your body. Gently brush away any solid materials, again avoiding unaffected body surfaces.
• Especially wash away any chemical in your or the person’s eye. Sometimes the best way to get large amounts of water to your eye is to step into the shower.

Medical treatment

• IV fluids may be needed to normalize blood pressure and heart rate.
• The IV access may also be used for any medications needed to treat pain or protect against infection.
• Decontamination will begin (likely water irrigation).
• You will be given any antidote to counteract the chemical, if appropriate.
• Antibiotics often are not needed for minor chemical burns.
• Wounds will be cleaned and bandaged with medicated creams and sterile wraps as needed.
• Consultation with other medical specialists may be done.
• Pain from a burn can often be severe. Adequate pain control will be addressed by your doctor.
• If there is any indication of breathing problems, a breathing tube may be placed in your airway to help.
• If needed, a tetanus booster will be given.
• Itching as a burn heals can be a serious problem. You may need special medication to soothe it.
• For severe burns, you may need surgery. In a process called skin grafting, a piece of healthy skin from somewhere else on your body or from a donor can be transplanted to replace the damaged skin.
• Cosmetic or reconstructive surgery may be needed to deal with scarring.
• Physical and occupational therapy can keep scars from limiting your range of motion.
• Counseling and support groups can help with emotional issues caused by trauma from the injury or disfigurement.

After leaving the emergency department, call your doctor within 24 hours to arrange follow-up care. Call sooner if any new problems or concerns arise.

Serious chemical burns can cause long-term complications:

• Many people have pain and scarring.
• Burns in the eye can lead to blindness.
• Swallowing harmful chemicals can lead to problems in your gastrointestinal tract, potentially leading to permanent disability.
• Some acid burns can cause the loss of fingers or toes.
• Burns can cause emotional issues including anxiety, depression, and insomnia.

• Secure all chemicals in and out of the home in locked cabinets or out of the reach of children.
• Store chemicals in their original containers.
• Try to use chemicals as little as possible, and don’t let them touch your skin.
• When using chemicals, always follow directions and safety precautions on the label provided by the manufacturer.
• Make sure your work area is well ventilated.
• Wear safety clothing and eye protection, and remember, safety first!

Most chemical burns are minor and can be treated without causing long-term problems. Some burns, however, cause significant scarring or other medical complications.

Top Picks

Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention, Care

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

Medically Reviewed by Jennifer Robinson, MD on September 07, 2022

• What Are Chemical Burns?
• Types of Chemical Burns
• Chemical Burn Causes and Risk Factors
• Chemical Burn Symptoms
• Emergency Medical Care for Chemical Burns
• Chemical Burn Diagnosis
• Chemical Burn Treatment
• Chemical Burn Follow-Up
• Chemical Burn Complications
• Chemical Burn Prevention
• Chemical Burn Outlook
• More

Chemical burns are injuries to the skin, eyes, mouth, or internal organs caused by contact with a corrosive substance. They may also be called caustic burns.

Chemical burns can happen in the home, at work, or at school. They can result from an accident or an assault. Although few people in the United States die after contact with chemicals in the home, many substances common in living areas and in storage areas can do serious harm.

Many chemical burns happen accidentally through misuse of products such as those for hair, skin, and nail care. Although injuries do happen at home, the risk of sustaining a chemical burn is much greater in the workplace, especially in businesses and manufacturing plants that use large quantities of chemicals.

Chemical burns are classified like other burns based on the amount of damage done:

• Superficial or first-degree burns only affect the outer layer of skin, called the epidermis. The area will be red and painful, but there usually is no permanent damage.
• Partial thickness or second-degree burns extend into the second layer of skin called the dermis. You may have blisters and swelling, and it may leave scars.
• Full thickness or third-degree burns go through the skin and may damage tissue underneath. The area may look black or white. Because nerves are destroyed, you may not feel pain.

Most chemicals that cause burns are either strong acids or bases. A glance at the medical information on the labels of dangerous chemicals confirms the expected toxicity. Commonsense precautions and consumer education can reduce your family’s risk of injury. A variety of household products can cause chemical burns, including:

• Ammonia
• Battery acid
• Bleach
• Concrete mix
• Drain or toilet bowl cleaners
• Metal cleaners
• Pool chlorinators
• Tooth-whitening products

Infants and older people are most at risk for burns. Chemical burns tend to happen to:

• Young children exploring their environments who get their hands on something dangerous
• People whose jobs put them in contact with chemicals

Chemical burn of the skin.

Chemical burn of the eye.

All chemical burns should be considered medical emergencies. If you have a chemical burn of the mouth or throat, call 911 and seek immediate medical attention.

Most chemical burns happen on the face, eyes, arms, and legs. Usually a chemical burn will be relatively small and will require only outpatient treatment. Chemical burns can be deceiving, however. Some agents can cause deep tissue damage not readily apparent when you first look at it.

Signs and symptoms of chemical burns include the following:

• Redness, irritation, or burning at the site of contact
• Pain or numbness at the site of contact
• Formation of blisters or black dead skin at the contact site
• Vision changes if the chemical gets into your eyes
• Cough or shortness of breath

Tissue damage from chemical burns depends on several things, including:

• The strength or concentration of the chemical
• The site of contact (eye, skin, mucous membrane)
• Whether it’s swallowed or inhaled
• Whether or not skin is intact
• How much of the chemical you came into contact with
• Duration of exposure
• How the chemical works

In serious cases, you may develop any of the following:

Any chemical burn can be a legitimate reason to get emergency medical help. Always call 911 if you don’t know how severe the injury is or whether or not the person is medically stable. Also call 911 if you have any concerns about a chemical injury.

Emergency personnel are trained to assess the extent of a chemical burn, begin treatment, and take patients to the hospital.

Emergency workers also may determine the need for more involved decontamination of both you and the accident site prior to going to the hospital. When you contact 911, tell the dispatcher as much of the following information as possible:

• How many people are injured and the location where they are
• How the injury happened
• Whether emergency personnel can reach the victims or whether the victims are trapped
• Name, strength, and volume or quantity of the chemical causing the burn (Give a container of the chemical to emergency personnel, if possible.)
• Length of time of contact with the chemical

Always seek emergency care for any burn that is larger than 3 inches in diameter or is very deep. Also seek emergency care for any chemical burns involving the face, eyes, groin, hands, feet, or buttocks or if it is over a joint.

Even if the exposure was very small and you have completed basic first aid, call your doctor to review the injury and the chemical involved and to make sure no further emergency treatment is needed. The doctor can arrange appropriate treatment or will direct you to go to a hospital’s emergency room. If you’re the person with the burn, ask your doctor if you need a tetanus shot.

In the emergency room, you can expect the following:

• Initial evaluation and stabilization
• Rapid evaluation of the chemical
• Determination of the extent of injury
• Blood tests and other studies to determine if you should be admitted to the hospital

Most people with chemical burns do not need to be admitted. Most can go home after arranging follow-up care with their doctor. In severe cases, however, they may need to be admitted to a hospital.

As soon as you or your child have contact with a dangerous chemical, begin basic first aid. Call Poison Control at 800-222-1222 if you do not know whether the chemical is toxic.

Immediately call 911 if you have a severe injury, any shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, or other symptoms throughout your body. If you are aiding an injured person with these symptoms, lay the person down and immediately call 911.

First aid

• Remove yourself or the person with the burn from the accident area.
• Remove any contaminated clothing.
• Wash the injured area to dilute or remove the substance, using large volumes of water. Wash for at least 20 minutes, taking care not to allow runoff to contact unaffected parts of your body. Gently brush away any solid materials, again avoiding unaffected body surfaces.
• Especially wash away any chemical in your or the person’s eye. Sometimes the best way to get large amounts of water to your eye is to step into the shower.

Medical treatment

• IV fluids may be needed to normalize blood pressure and heart rate.
• The IV access may also be used for any medications needed to treat pain or protect against infection.
• Decontamination will begin (likely water irrigation).
• You will be given any antidote to counteract the chemical, if appropriate.
• Antibiotics often are not needed for minor chemical burns.
• Wounds will be cleaned and bandaged with medicated creams and sterile wraps as needed.
• Consultation with other medical specialists may be done.
• Pain from a burn can often be severe. Adequate pain control will be addressed by your doctor.
• If there is any indication of breathing problems, a breathing tube may be placed in your airway to help.
• If needed, a tetanus booster will be given.
• Itching as a burn heals can be a serious problem. You may need special medication to soothe it.
• For severe burns, you may need surgery. In a process called skin grafting, a piece of healthy skin from somewhere else on your body or from a donor can be transplanted to replace the damaged skin.
• Cosmetic or reconstructive surgery may be needed to deal with scarring.
• Physical and occupational therapy can keep scars from limiting your range of motion.
• Counseling and support groups can help with emotional issues caused by trauma from the injury or disfigurement.

After leaving the emergency department, call your doctor within 24 hours to arrange follow-up care. Call sooner if any new problems or concerns arise.

Serious chemical burns can cause long-term complications:

• Many people have pain and scarring.
• Burns in the eye can lead to blindness.
• Swallowing harmful chemicals can lead to problems in your gastrointestinal tract, potentially leading to permanent disability.
• Some acid burns can cause the loss of fingers or toes.
• Burns can cause emotional issues including anxiety, depression, and insomnia.

• Secure all chemicals in and out of the home in locked cabinets or out of the reach of children.
• Store chemicals in their original containers.
• Try to use chemicals as little as possible, and don’t let them touch your skin.
• When using chemicals, always follow directions and safety precautions on the label provided by the manufacturer.
• Make sure your work area is well ventilated.
• Wear safety clothing and eye protection, and remember, safety first!

Most chemical burns are minor and can be treated without causing long-term problems. Some burns, however, cause significant scarring or other medical complications.

Top Picks

Chemical and thermal skin burns

Late spring and early summer is the season for burns. Too high an UV index, sunscreen not applied on time (out of habit, after a gray winter), the wrong time for cosmetic procedures – and our skin burns out. We decided to find out how to distinguish a chemical burn from a thermal one, what can and cannot be done during the period of active sun, what cosmeceutical products and how to use, as well as what procedures can be done if the skin has been burned after all.

For answers, we turned to the candidate of medical sciences, dermatologist, trichologist of the network of clinics COSMOPRO Makhulaeva Aishat Magomedovna.

Aishat Magomedovna, help me figure out what is what? When is the burn thermal and when is it chemical?

Chemical burn is damage to the skin of the outer parts of the body and mucous membranes as a result of exposure to aggressive chemicals: alkalis, heavy metals, various acids. Thermal burns are burns with a flame, hot steam, hot or burning liquid, boiling water, from contact with hot objects, sunburn.

How can the misuse of cosmeceuticals lead to chemical burns? Surely there are cases when patients overdo it with the use of retinol and other acids or mix what should not be mixed.

I think in this case it is appropriate to tell a few rules for the use of cosmeceuticals.

Rule 1: Do not mix salicylic and glycolic acids.

Everyone’s favorite salicylic acid, which is one of the ingredients of various masks, foundations, serums, is a beta-hydroxy acid. It is not recommended to be mixed with other cosmetic preparations containing alpha hydroxy acids. The latter include glycolic, malic, lactic, citric acids. The combined use of alpha and beta hydroxy acids can cause severe persistent skin irritation.

Rule 2: Do not use vitamin C with alpha hydroxy acids.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and does not tolerate the neighborhood with many substances, so the use of creams and serums based on it is recommended separately from other care products. For example, alpha hydroxy acids (widely used in anti-aging AHA acids in cosmetics) have a destabilizing effect on vitamin C and thereby deprive it of its antioxidant properties. As a result of the simultaneous use of products containing vitamin C and AHA acids, you can get irritation, redness, and peeling of the skin.

Rule 3: Don’t mix retinol with AHAs and adapalenes.

It is strictly not recommended to use retinol-based ointments and creams together with acids or adapalenes (drugs that reduce the secretion of sebaceous glands). Such a combination can significantly dry out the skin and even lead to a burn, and it will take time to restore it.

Rule 4: Do not use benzoyl peroxide with acids and vitamin C.

Benzoyl peroxide is a drug for the treatment of acne, available in various forms: creams, lotions, gels, and is an ingredient in face masks, pads, pencils. It is not recommended to use it simultaneously with any acid-containing creams, as the effect of both drugs is reduced or nullified as a result of the acid neutralization reaction with alkali. The same goes for skin care products containing vitamin C – they should not be used on the same day as products that contain benzoyl peroxide. Otherwise, you risk not getting any effect at all from either one or the other.

Rule 5: Don’t mix AHAs with peptides.

Peptide creams have become very popular. Peptides are compounds of two or more amino acids whose chains form a protein. These include collagen and keratin. Their main task is to influence the work of skin cells. Peptides, unlike other cream ingredients, can penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin and have a powerful effect on its condition. Many of them are incompatible with AHA acids: the latter neutralize the effect of peptides, therefore, in order to obtain the effect of using the cream, it is not recommended to use tonics with acids before applying them.

Rule 6: Use products from the same line.

No, this is not our marketing ploy. The fact is that the lines of cosmetics are created so that one product complements the other, so the risk of undesirable consequences is minimized. Within one line, the manufacturer has already thought out for you a competent combination of certain components and means.

Tell us why misuse of cosmeceuticals or visiting procedures at the wrong time can lead to thermal burns? And what can be done to avoid this?

Retinol creams can be used in the summer if applied in the evening and an effective sunscreen in the morning. A sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more should protect your skin from UV damage and help maintain the benefits of retinol. Retinol has two difficult properties: it can be quite aggressive on the skin, and as a chemical compound it is unstable – not photostable. Further stability can be achieved with encapsulation technologies such as liposome or polymer films. An additional effect of some molecular films is the effect of exposure to time, that is, after injection into the skin, retinol is slowly released, thus reducing the accompanying erythema (reddening of the skin) and sensitivity.

There are also peels that can be done all year round – these are superficial or middle peels that do not have a recovery period. After such procedures, only slight peeling of the skin is possible, but the result will be visible immediately after the first visit.

COSMOPRO has at least four types of such peels, these are:

– PRX-T33 (WiQo med., Italy)

– Biorepil (BioRePeelCL3., Italy)

– PhFormula peeling group (Spain)

– almond peels: Mandelac Exfoliating gel, Enerpeel MA.\

These treatments help to cope with various skin problems, ranging from acne, ending with pigmentation and wrinkles. Peelings are selected individually, depending on the tasks and skin type.

Although these procedures are all-weather, some precautions must be observed. For example, it is not recommended to go to the solarium. Also, a prerequisite for peeling is the daily application of sunscreen.

What products can help protect hypersensitive skin from sunburn?

Use Sunscreen : On both sunny and cloudy days, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF30+ or ​​higher at least half an hour before going outside to protect your skin from two types of harmful UV rays: UV-A and UV-B.

Cloudy days in the summer are no reason to do without a day cream with SPF. Moreover, it is in such weather that the rays of spectrum A are especially dangerous, causing serious diseases and contributing to skin aging.

Medicines for high blood pressure, hormonal birth control pills and antibiotics increase tissue sensitivity to the sun and increase the risk of sunburn and sunburn. If you are traveling to hot places but continue to take medication, be sure to choose products with the highest possible SPF (at least not less than 30).

Which procedures in COSMOPRO will help to get rid of the consequences of burns?

Treatments performed in the clinic to get rid of the consequences of burns are:

1. Mesotherapy — intradermal administration of “cocktails” of drugs that contain hyaluronic acid, vitamins, trace elements, amino acids, lipolytics, peptides. The ingredients for the “cocktail” are chosen exclusively by the attending physician, based on the needs of each patient and the purpose of the procedure.
2. Plasma therapy is the introduction into the patient’s skin of plasma isolated from his own blood sample using special vacuum tubes and passed through a centrifuge. Such plasma is enriched with platelet growth factors. And platelets, as you know, play a key role in the restoration of damaged tissues. Under the influence of the administered drug, the skin independently restarts all its internal rejuvenation processes thanks to the “native” proteins, vitamins and hormones contained in the drug.
3. Biorevitalization is an injectable method of skin rejuvenation using hyaluronic acid preparations, an ideal procedure for dry and dehydrated skin, as well as for oily skin with enlarged pores. Biorevitalization helps fight photoaging, brightens dull complexion, relieves hyperpigmentation (including after burns).
4. BBL (Broad Band Light) Skin Rejuvenation — High-intensity broadband light treatment is an ideal procedure for preventing and combating skin changes. BBL rays penetrate deep into the skin and awaken thousands of dormant genes, helping to activate the regenerative processes, immunity and metabolism of the skin. BBL photorejuvenation is an excellent solution for such problems as the treatment of burns, photoaging, acne, and vascular pathologies.

We thank Dr. Aishat Magomedovna for an interesting and informative conversation, and invite everyone to the procedures at COSMOPRO clinics in Moscow and St. Petersburg!

You can get advice on the services of the clinic and the assortment of our online store here.

Text: Maria Grinfeldt

First aid for burns, what to do, what to anoint with

What to do with a burn? What helps with burns?

Acute thermal or chemical damage to the skin and adjacent tissues is called a burn. In severe cases, the injury affects tendons, joints, and even bones.

Most people prefer to treat burns on their own, but not all burns respond to home remedies and methods. Inept attempts to help only worsen the condition, and the case may end in severe intoxication. In therapy, not only skills are important, but also the speed of assistance – some burns can be fatal.

From this article you will learn what kind of help to provide for a burn, whether something needs to be applied to it, what folk remedies can be used, and how long it takes for a burn to heal at home.

Types of burns

To understand how to treat a burn at home, it is important to know the types and degrees of burn injury. Proper exposure to the affected area of ​​​​the skin is half the success.

There are four degrees of burns:

• I – the burn affects only the upper layer of the epidermis. There is slight redness, slight swelling is possible;
• II – characterized by the formation of blisters on the surface of the skin. It is categorically impossible to violate their integrity and try to pierce, even if they itch and bring other discomfort. Otherwise, infection and the formation of rough scars after healing are likely;
• III – the lesion is concentrated in all layers of the skin and partially affects the muscle. The blisters are filled not only with a cloudy liquid, but also with blood. The pain syndrome is intense and difficult to bear.
• IV – all soft tissues and bones are injured – up to charring.

You can treat burns of I-II degrees on your own, but III-IV degrees require emergency hospitalization.

Burns are also classified according to the source of damage:

• thermal;
• chemical;
• beam;
• electrical;
• combined.

The first two are the most common.

Different therapeutic strategies are relevant for each of these types of burns. What treats thermal burns is not suitable for the treatment of electrical injuries.

What to do in case of a severe burn?

The extent of the damage must first be visually assessed. Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following symptoms are present:

• the burn affected more than 5% of the body;
• severely burned face, limbs (hands or feet), joints, perineum;
• a person was struck by lightning or burned due to a faulty electrical wiring;
• the victim is unable to breathe or you suspect that the airway has been burned;
• Part of the body of a child, elderly person or pregnant woman is burned.

In severe deep lesions of the skin, joints and bones, patients are sent to intensive care. Refrain from trying to help yourself in this situation. Each wrong action aggravates the condition and may end in the death of the victim.

In case of eye damage, never rinse with water. What to do – the ophthalmologist will tell you after an internal examination.

Do not touch the burn site, move the injured person, try to make a compress from a cloth soaked in water or other liquid, apply plant leaves, ointments and other means to the damaged areas. Wait for the ambulance to arrive.

How to relieve the pain of a burn at home?

Ripping off clothes from burned areas, applying ice to them and other similar activities will only increase the pain syndrome. If the damage is minor, rinse the burn with cool (but not icy) water. For example, in case of a hand injury, the burn site can be kept under running water for 5-10 minutes. This will reduce discomfort and stabilize the condition. The method is suitable only for burns of I-II degrees. If a severe burn injury is suspected, treatment should be carried out by a competent specialist.

How to treat a skin burn, first aid for burns

What to do at home if a burn occurs? What to anoint the burn?

The main thing is to refrain from using such products:

• oil;
• toothpaste;
• goose fat;
• wet and synthetic fabric;
• alcohol solutions;
• potassium permanganate and iodine.

Aloe leaf cut in half, panthenol product, antibacterial ointment, natural honey can be applied to the injured area.

All products Iodine

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How to treat sunburn?

How to help at home if you have a sunburn? Use systemic ibuprofen to relieve pain. Before taking the medicine, read the contraindications.

Hydrocortisone and petroleum jelly mixed in a 1:1 ratio can be used as a topical treatment. This mixture will relieve irritation and inflammation, help accelerate regeneration, and reduce burning and swelling.

All products Hydrocortisone

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All products Vaseline

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How to treat burns from hogweed?

How to smear a burn from cow parsnip? The choice of remedy depends on the degree of damage. For minor damage, wash the injured area with a mixture of soap and soda (proportion – 1: 1), and then gently wipe with a cloth moistened with ethyl alcohol.

The amount of alcohol should be minimal so as not to provoke a second chemical burn. After first aid, generously lubricate the wound with panthenol and use it every day. During the treatment period, protect the injured area of ​​the skin from ultraviolet radiation.

All products Panthenol

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All products Ethyl alcohol

How to treat a chemical burn?

The most you can do yourself is rinse the burn with cool water and apply a sterile dressing. Then you should immediately consult a doctor. The doctor will select the drugs and draw up a treatment regimen that is relevant in your case.

First aid for burns with boiling water

How to lubricate a burn at home if it appeared due to boiling water? For severe pain, take an ibuprofen or equivalent pain reliever by mouth. Do not apply painkillers to the burn surface! Create an antiseptic dressing: a plaster or ointment with an antiseptic, and on top – a sterile bandage.

An antiseptic dressing is recommended to be applied daily until the blisters are gone.

The best remedy for boiled water burns

How to treat a nettle burn?

In situations where nettles have been the source of injury, cool the injured area with clean, cool water and wipe the rash with a tissue dampened with a small amount of ethanol solution.

How to treat a burn from welding on the eyes?

These burns require topical medical treatment. Usually, tetracaine-based eye drops are used, which are instilled into the eyes 2 times a day, one drop each. “Vizin Pure Tear” will also help if the mucous eyes need to be moisturized. However, the best solution in such cases would be a visit to an ophthalmologist.

What helps with oil burns

The burn is traditionally washed with cool water. If blisters appear, apply a cooling gel around them. If the blister bursts on its own, treat the wound with an antiseptic for burns or cover it with a sterile dry bandage and see a doctor. Do not use hydrogen peroxide, brilliant green and other alcohol-containing solutions!

Features of the treatment of burns

The treatment of a burn depends on what percentage of the skin and body area has been damaged. Minor injuries heal fairly quickly, while serious ones require medical attention. In order to take effective measures, it is important to adequately assess the situation.

All I-II degree burns are treated in approximately the same way:

• rinsing with clean cold water;
• antiseptic treatment;
• application of a sterile dressing.

If there is minor damage, dressing can be avoided – in this case, panthenol is used instead of wearing it until complete healing.

How to treat a face burn? With a mild degree of damage – similar to the traditional strategy. The main thing in the treatment of burns on the face is patience. In no case should blisters and crusts be damaged. It is important to wait for full regeneration so as not to get a scar. After spontaneous discharge of the crust, it is recommended to use anti-scar ointments and gels (Kontraktubeks and analogues). If a chemical comes into contact with your face, rinse the area thoroughly with water and then visit a doctor. In case of contact with sulfuric acid and other particularly aggressive agents, call an ambulance.

Natural remedies for burns can be used:

• aloe;
• pumpkin juice;
• rosehip decoction.

For burn injuries, rinse mouth with cool water. Make sure that the water is not ice cold – this will provoke additional irritation. In case of a burn of the mouth, expectant tactics are chosen. Mucous membranes heal quickly enough without additional manipulations. But if during the healing process you feel painful or uncomfortable symptoms, and the damaged areas of the mouth begin to ulcerate, visit a doctor.

Burns of the mucous membrane of the throat are treated with sea buckthorn oil, rosehip decoction or aloe gel. Rinse your throat with cool water first. But with severe degrees of damage, you need to urgently seek medical help.

Children suffer burn injuries worse and more painfully than adults. Therefore, after providing basic first aid, you should take the baby to the doctor or call an ambulance.

All products Sea buckthorn oil

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Blisters with burns – what to do?

How to treat a blister from a burn? The main rule is not to try to violate its integrity, but to wait for healing. The most common mistake is to prick a blister with a needle. This can provoke infection of the wound and provide rough scarring. If the blister is damaged by itself, wait until the liquid has completely poured out, gently treat the skin with a solution of hydrogen peroxide (up to 3%), generously lubricate the area with a panthenol-containing preparation and cover with a sterile bandage. Keep the injured area out of direct sunlight and change the sterile dressing regularly.

All products Hydrogen peroxide

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How long does a burn last?

The healing rate of a burn depends on its degree and location. Damage that is located in areas with increased skin sensitivity heals longer. We are talking about burns of the face, groin, armpits, hands and feet.

The first stage of healing is the rejection of damaged skin. It is manifested by redness and peeling of the integument. For burns of the first two degrees, the process lasts up to 5 days, the third degree – up to several weeks, the fourth – from a month, depending on the affected areas. It may take 4-6 months to restore bones and joints.

The second stage is wound granulation. This stage does not apply to first and second degree burns, since the skin is not affected so deeply. With the third and fourth degrees, the stage lasts several months, and plastic surgery is often required, since the body cannot cope with large-scale lesions on its own.

The third stage is scarring, covering the wound with a renewed epidermis.