Chemical Burn Treatment

While most people tend to think of burns as a minor and temporary inconvenience and overlook them, the fact remains that some burns can have serious consequences. Chemical burns definitely take top spot among them and should not be ignored. Chemical burns are mostly caused due to strong acids or bases coming in contact with your skin. The location of the burn can complicate matters. While it is understood that a burn on the eye, face, groin or any other sensitive organ warrants immediate medical attention, even a harmless looking chemical burn on your hand should be brought to the attention of a doctor, due to the fact that chemical burns have a tendency to aggravate and greatly damage the skin if not treated quickly and appropriately. If the burn has pus oozing out or it has a yellowish crust on top, one should immediately consult a doctor. Fever accompanying the burn is also a cause for concern. There are a number of effective remedies to heal chemical burns once complications have been ruled out.

The first thing to do is remove all clothing that has been in contact with the chemical causing the burn. Gently brush away any dust or grime on the burn and then clean the affected area using cool clean water. Do not use ice as it is too cold and could further damage the skin. You could also use cool milk or soda to wash the burn but remember to follow it up with a rinse using cold water. Cold compress over the burn using a soft cloth soaked in cool water is also an excellent remedy. Repeat the compress every hour for the whole day. Cleaning the burn regularly too is a necessary step. Use a mild soap or hydrogen peroxide for the cleaning. If you notice blisters, leave them alone. Having thoroughly cleaned the burn, you can apply an antibacterial ointment. Now bandage the burn using an adhesive strip or gauze dressing depending on the size of the burn. While bandaging, take care not to tie it too tight and keep moving the affected part to promote blood circulation. After the wound heals over, remember to moisturize the affected area using a gentle fragrance-free moisturizer.

Drinking a lot of water and fluids also helps by keeping the skin hydrated thus expediting the healing. In addition, supplement your diet with proteins through intake of foods like nuts, beans, eggs, milk and milk products. Vitamin C from citrus fruits and vegetables like broccoli too will prove extremely beneficial.