Chemical burns are serious injuries from corrosive substances contacting the skin. While aloe vera is known for soothing other burn types, its use for chemical burns is often questioned. Understanding the distinct nature of chemical burns and appropriate immediate actions is crucial for minimizing damage. This article clarifies why aloe vera is generally not recommended and outlines correct first aid procedures.
Understanding Chemical Burns
Chemical burns occur when strong acids, alkalis (bases), detergents, or solvents contact skin or eyes, causing tissue destruction. Unlike thermal burns from external heat sources, chemical burns involve an ongoing chemical reaction. This reaction continues as long as the chemical remains in contact, causing progressive damage.
Severity depends on the chemical type, concentration, exposure amount, and contact duration. Acids cause coagulation necrosis, damaging cells, while bases cause liquefaction necrosis, dissolving tissues and leading to deeper injuries. Common household products like bleach, drain cleaners, and battery acid can cause these injuries.
Why Aloe Vera is Not Recommended for Chemical Burns
Aloe vera is known for its soothing effects on minor thermal burns due to its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. However, these benefits do not apply to chemical burns. Applying aloe vera to a chemical burn is not recommended as it does not neutralize the corrosive chemical.
Instead, applying a gel or cream like aloe vera can trap the chemical against the skin, hindering removal and prolonging exposure. This prolonged contact can worsen the burn, leading to more extensive tissue damage. The primary goal is to stop the chemical reaction quickly, which aloe vera cannot achieve.
Immediate First Aid for Chemical Burns
Immediate and correct first aid is important for chemical burns to minimize the extent of the injury. First, ensure safety by removing the person from the chemical source and clearing the area of ongoing exposure. If the chemical is dry or powdered, gently brush off as much as possible before introducing water, as water can react with some dry chemicals to create a more dangerous substance.
After removing dry chemical, or immediately for liquids, flush the affected area with cool, running water. Flush continuously for at least 20 minutes to dilute and remove the chemical from the skin’s surface. As you flush, swiftly remove any contaminated clothing or jewelry to prevent further chemical exposure. After rinsing, loosely cover the burn with a clean, dry dressing or cloth.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Professional medical attention is often necessary for chemical burns, even if they appear mild. Chemical burns can cause deep tissue damage that may not be immediately apparent. Call emergency services or go to an emergency room immediately if the burn is deep, larger than 3 inches (about 8 centimeters) in diameter, or involves sensitive areas like the hands, feet, face, eyes, groin, or buttocks.
Medical attention is needed if the burn causes blistering, is accompanied by signs of shock (such as cool, clammy skin, weak pulse, or shallow breathing), or if the affected person is a child or elderly. When seeking medical help, bring the chemical container or its name to provide medical professionals with information about the substance involved.