Your skin has been exposed to a chemical. The effects of chemicals on the skin range from mild irritation and redness to a severe burn. The seriousness of the injury depends on several things. These include the type of chemical, how concentrated it was, and how long it was on your skin.
It's common to have some irritation for 24 hours after the exposure. This is the case even if the exposure was mild. If it was more serious, follow up with your health care provider as directed.
Home care
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You can put a cool compress on the area 3 to 4 times a day. You can make a cool compress by using a towel soaked in cool water. This will help reduce pain and swelling.
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If a dressing was applied, change it every 24 hours, or as directed, and watch for the warning signs listed below.
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You may use over-the-counter medicine to control pain unless another pain medicine was prescribed. These include acetaminophen, naproxen, or ibuprofen. If you have liver disease or have ever had a stomach ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding, talk with your health care provider before using these pain medicines. Also talk with your provider if you are taking blood-thinning medicines.
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Try not to pick, scratch, or rub at your injury. This may make the injury worse or cause an infection.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your health care provider as advised.
When to get medical advice
Contact your health care provider right away if you have:
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Increased swelling or pain.
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Severe blistering.
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Increasing redness.
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Fluid drainage from the skin.
Call 911
Call
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Trouble breathing or swallowing.
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Extreme drowsiness or trouble waking up.
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Severe confusion.
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Seizures.
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Fainting.
Online Medical Reviewer: Esther Adler
Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN
Date Last Reviewed: 03/01/2025
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
