Mineral spirits, also known as paint thinner or Stoddard solvent, are petroleum-derived hydrocarbon mixtures commonly used as industrial solvents and degreasers. Accidental skin exposure requires immediate and specific action. Because mineral spirits are not water-soluble, simple rinsing is not enough. The immediate priority is to rapidly remove and dilute the chemical to prevent deeper skin and potential systemic damage. The goal of first aid is physical removal of the solvent from the skin’s surface, not chemical “neutralization.”
Essential Steps for Immediate Removal
Upon skin contact, move away from the source and immediately remove any contaminated clothing or jewelry. Mineral spirits can soak into fabric and hold the chemical against the skin, making prompt removal necessary to stop the exposure. Contaminated clothing should be placed into a sealed container to prevent inhalation exposure from vapors and must be washed thoroughly before reuse.
The main technique for removing mineral spirits from the skin is prolonged flushing with water. Flush the affected area with large amounts of cool or lukewarm running water for at least 15 minutes to dilute and wash away the chemical. This extensive rinsing is important because the severity of skin irritation relates directly to how quickly and thoroughly the solvent is removed.
Following the initial water flush, the area should be thoroughly washed with a mild soap. The soap helps to emulsify the remaining oily hydrocarbon residue, making it easier to lift and rinse away. After applying the soap, continue to rinse the area with copious amounts of water for a minimum of another 15 minutes to ensure all solvent and soap residue is gone.
Understanding Skin Damage from Solvents
Mineral spirits are lipophilic, meaning they dissolve fats and oils, which allows them to damage the skin’s natural protective barrier. This mechanism involves stripping away the skin’s surface lipids in a process known as defatting. This defatting action causes the skin to dry out, leading to irritation, redness, and a burning sensation.
The dissolution of the protective lipid barrier leaves the skin vulnerable to further irritation and can result in chemical dermatitis. Prolonged contact increases the risk of the hydrocarbon being absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream. Once absorbed, these hydrocarbons can affect internal systems, including the kidneys and central nervous system.
Monitoring Symptoms and Seeking Professional Help
After the initial cleaning process is complete, the focus shifts to monitoring the skin and watching for signs of deeper exposure or systemic effects. The defatting action of the solvent will leave the skin very dry, so applying a bland, non-irritating moisturizer or emollient can help to restore the skin’s barrier function and soothe irritation. This secondary care is important for preventing persistent dryness and discomfort following the exposure.
It is necessary to seek immediate medical attention if skin tissue appears damaged, or if pain, irritation, or redness persists after the extensive cleaning. Even a mild exposure can cause irritation, but more severe signs include blistering, persistent rash, or tissue necrosis. For any exposure, it is advisable to contact a Poison Control Center for guidance on follow-up care.
Beyond skin symptoms, exposure to mineral spirits can cause systemic symptoms that require emergency care, especially through inhalation of fumes or absorption through the skin. Symptoms such as nausea, headache, dizziness, fatigue, or drowsiness may indicate central nervous system depression or other systemic toxicity. If the exposed person experiences difficulty breathing, confusion, or a loss of alertness, emergency medical services should be called immediately.