Nail polish remover, whether acetone-based or acetone-free, is a highly irritating chemical substance. When this solution contacts the sensitive tissues of the eye, it causes a serious chemical exposure that demands immediate attention. The solvents are designed to dissolve tough nail lacquer, and they can cause rapid irritation and damage to the eye’s protective layers. Taking prompt, correct action is paramount to minimizing the potential for severe or lasting injury.
Immediate Rinsing and First Aid
The single most important action to take is to begin flushing the eye immediately with clean, lukewarm water. This process of irrigation should start before calling for help or attempting to transport the person to a hospital. The goal is to dilute and wash away the chemical from the surface of the eye for a minimum of 15 to 20 minutes.
A gentle stream of water can be directed onto the forehead over the affected eye while holding the eyelids open, or the individual can stand in a shower and aim the water at the bridge of the nose to flush both eyes. If wearing contact lenses, they should be removed during the rinsing process, which may be done by simply allowing the running water to flush them out. Avoid rubbing the eye, as this can cause the chemical to spread or create additional physical damage to the corneal surface.
How Solvents Damage Eye Tissue
Nail polish remover solvents, such as acetone, are known irritants that primarily cause damage through their dehydrating and fat-dissolving properties. The cornea, the transparent front layer of the eye, is protected by a thin outer layer of epithelial cells that have a lipid-rich surface. Acetone rapidly dissolves this protective lipid barrier, which allows the solvent to penetrate and dry out the underlying cells.
This chemical action leads to immediate pain, redness, and a burning sensation, resulting in what is often classified as a chemical burn or corneal epithelial damage. The high irritancy and drying effect of the solvents can still cause significant surface injury.
When to Seek Professional Medical Care
After completing the 15-to-20-minute flushing procedure, seeking professional medical care is necessary to assess the extent of the injury. An ophthalmologist or emergency room physician will determine if the damage is limited to minor irritation or if a more severe injury has occurred. Symptoms indicating a need for immediate emergency evaluation include persistent or severe pain, blurred or decreased vision, and extreme sensitivity to light (photophobia).
Medical professionals will often perform a pH test on the eye to determine if the chemical residue has been fully neutralized, and they may continue irrigation if the pH remains abnormal. They will use a specialized stain, fluorescein, and a slit lamp microscope to check for corneal epithelial defects, which appear as abrasions or damaged areas. Treatment may involve prescribing topical antibiotic drops or ointments to prevent infection and a cycloplegic agent to reduce pain from muscle spasms. A follow-up appointment with an eye specialist is usually arranged to monitor the healing of the corneal surface and ensure that no long-term vision issues develop.