Acid burns occur when corrosive substances, such as sulfuric or hydrochloric acid, contact the skin, eyes, or internal tissues. These powerful chemicals rapidly denature proteins, causing cell death and tissue damage. Since damage continues as long as the acid remains on the body, the highest priority in first aid is immediately stopping the chemical reaction. Prompt action is essential to minimizing the injury’s severity, which can range from mild irritation to deep tissue destruction.
The Critical First Step: Immediate Flushing
The first response to an acid burn must be immediate and decisive to remove the chemical source. Every second the acid remains on the skin increases the depth and extent of the injury. Quickly remove any contaminated clothing, jewelry, or accessories, cutting them away if necessary to prevent further exposure.
Move the injured person immediately to the nearest source of large-volume running water, such as an emergency shower or sink. Flushing must begin instantly, before any other first aid steps are considered. Water acts as a diluent and a physical wash to carry the corrosive chemical away from the tissue. This rapid action is the most effective way to limit the extent of the burn damage.
Sustained Irrigation and Neutralization Misconceptions
The answer to “what to put on an acid burn” is copious amounts of plain, running water. Flushing must be sustained for a prolonged period to ensure the acid is completely diluted and removed. The recommended duration for continuous rinsing is a minimum of 15 to 30 minutes, or longer if pain persists. Use lukewarm to cool water, but never extremely cold or ice water, as this can worsen tissue damage or lead to hypothermia.
The water should flow gently over the affected area in a low-pressure stream to avoid splashing the chemical onto unaffected skin or the eyes of the person giving aid. For dry or powdered chemicals, gently brush the substance off the skin before applying water. This is necessary because some powders react with water to create heat or a corrosive solution.
A common misconception is using a neutralizing agent, such as baking soda, to counteract the acid. Attempting to perform chemistry on the skin is discouraged because the reaction between an acid and a base is exothermic, producing heat. This heat generation can cause a secondary thermal burn, significantly worsening the injury. Searching for a neutralizing agent also wastes precious time that should be spent flushing the wound with water, the safest and most effective method.
Protecting the Wound After Rinsing
Once the skin has been thoroughly rinsed and the burning sensation has subsided, focus on protecting the injured tissue. Gently pat the area dry with a clean cloth to remove excess water. Cover the burn with a sterile, non-adherent dressing or a clean, non-fluffy cloth.
The covering protects the exposed tissue from infection and further trauma. Since the patient is at risk of hypothermia following a major burn, they should be kept warm with a blanket or sheet. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may be used to manage pain.
Avoid applying any creams, ointments, or home remedies, as these can trap heat or chemicals and interfere with medical examination. Never apply ice directly to the burn, though a cool compress over the dressing may provide additional relief. Do not break any blisters, as the skin covering them provides a natural barrier against infection.
Assessing Injury Severity and Professional Care
Every chemical burn requires professional medical evaluation, regardless of how minor it appears after flushing. Chemical burns can cause delayed or progressive tissue damage that may not be fully apparent immediately. Call immediate emergency services if the burn is large, deep, or involves sensitive areas like the eyes, face, hands, feet, genitals, or major joints.
Signs of a severe burn requiring immediate emergency attention include charring, waxy white or leathery skin, or signs of shock (e.g., weak pulse or cool, clammy skin). Difficulty breathing, coughing, or a hoarse voice may indicate a life-threatening inhalation injury. It is helpful if the container or label of the chemical can be taken to the hospital to inform treatment protocols.
Even minor burns showing only redness must be checked by a doctor to prevent infection and ensure the corrosive agent is neutralized. Professional medical follow-up is necessary for all chemical exposures due to the potential for long-term complications, including scarring and nerve injury. Seeking prompt medical care ensures the wound receives proper cleaning, sterile dressing, and specialized treatment.