Chemical Burn Treatment and Care at Advanced Dermatology, P.C.

Chemical burns are injuries caused by contact with harsh substances such as acids, alkalis, or solvents. These burns can damage the skin, eyes, or internal tissues and often require prompt medical care to prevent complications like infection or scarring.

Chemical burns, whether from a workplace accident, a household cleaning product, or a cosmetic product, need expert evaluation and personalized treatment.

At Advanced Dermatology, P.C., our board-certified dermatologists provide expert medical dermatology services, including chemical burn care and recovery support.

To learn more about how to treat chemical burns and when to seek care, continue reading below or contact our team directly.

What Are Chemical Burns?

Chemical burns are a dermatological condition that occurs when skin or mucous membranes are exposed to corrosive substances.

Unlike thermal burns caused by heat, chemical burns result from a chemical reaction that breaks down tissue.

Why Chemical Burns are a Serious Concern

Depending on the substance, the burn can continue to cause damage until it’s thoroughly neutralized or removed.

Chemical burns can range from mild irritation to deep tissue damage, requiring urgent dermatological care to prevent long-term effects such as pigment changes, scarring, or infection.

Causes of Chemical Burns

Chemical burns can occur in a variety of everyday and occupational settings.

Common causes include:

Household cleaning agents (bleach, ammonia, drain cleaners).
Industrial chemicals (strong acids or alkalis).
Hair dyes or depilatory creams.
Skin care acids (such as glycolic, trichloroacetic, or salicylic acid).
Automotive or battery chemicals.
Pool chemicals or pesticides.

Children and individuals who work in environments with chemical exposure are especially at risk. Knowing the causes of chemical burns is the first step in prevention.

Types of Chemical Burns

The depth and extent of tissue damage typically classify chemical burns. They include:

Superficial burns (First-degree): Affect only the outer layer of skin, often causing redness and discomfort.
Partial-thickness burns (Second-degree): Extend deeper into the skin, causing blistering and swelling.
Full-thickness burns (Third-degree): Penetrate all layers of the skin and may affect underlying tissues or nerves.

The severity depends on the chemical involved, concentration, and duration of exposure.

Symptoms of Chemical Burns

Chemical burn symptoms vary based on the type and extent of the exposure. Early symptoms may be subtle but can worsen quickly without prompt care.

Common symptoms include:

Redness or discoloration.
A burning or stinging pain.
Blisters or peeling skin.
Swelling or inflammation.
Numbness in the affected area.
Skin that appears charred or leathery in severe cases.

If you’re experiencing symptoms after chemical contact, don’t wait to see if they improve on their own; professional care is essential.

How to Treat a Chemical Burn: First Aid Steps

Immediate care is essential for reducing tissue damage. If you or someone else experiences a chemical burn, follow these first aid steps before seeking medical attention:

Remove contaminated clothing or jewelry.
Flush the affected area with cool (not cold) running water for at least 15 to 20 minutes.
Avoid neutralizing the chemical unless instructed by poison control or a healthcare provider.
Cover the area loosely with a clean, dry cloth.
Do not apply ointments, creams, or ice without medical advice.

Call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room if the burn is deep, covers a large area, or involves the face, eyes, or genitals.

Treatment Options for Chemical Burns

At Advanced Dermatology, P.C., we offer customized medical dermatology treatment options for chemical burns based on the severity and location of the injury.

Treatments may include:

Wound cleansing and dressing to promote healing and prevent infection.
Topical or oral medications such as antibiotics or corticosteroids.
Pain management and skin-soothing solutions.
Scar prevention therapies including silicone gels or early laser treatment.
Ongoing dermatological monitoring to assess healing and prevent complications.

We also offer cosmetic dermatology services to support skin recovery if scarring or discoloration occurs.

Chemical Burn Management at Advanced Dermatology, P.C.

Our approach to chemical burn care combines immediate treatment with long-term skin management.

Whether you have a minor reaction from a cosmetic product or a more serious injury, our dermatologists will create a personalized treatment plan to support healing, prevent scarring, and restore skin health.

We also coordinate care with other specialists if deeper tissue involvement is suspected.

How Long Do Chemical Burns Take to Heal?

Healing time varies depending on the depth and size of the burn, the chemical involved, and how quickly treatment was started.

Here’s what you can typically expect:

Mild burns may heal within 1 to 2 weeks with proper care.
Moderate burns may take several weeks and require wound monitoring.
Severe burns may take months to heal and could involve multiple treatments or procedures.

Following your specific care instructions and attending all follow-up visits will help ensure a smoother recovery.

When to Seek Professional Help for Chemical Burns

You should visit a dermatologist if:

The burn is not improving within 24 to 48 hours.
Blisters, open wounds, or signs of infection appear.
You experience changes in skin pigmentation or texture.
Pain is persistent or worsening.
You’re concerned about long-term skin health or scarring.

Don’t delay care. Early intervention leads to better outcomes.

Preventing Chemical Burns and Protecting Your Skin

While not all chemical burns are avoidable, the following precautions can reduce your risk:

Wear gloves and protective eyewear when using cleaning agents or harsh chemicals.
Always follow product instructions and avoid mixing chemical substances.
Perform patch tests when trying new skin care or cosmetic treatments.
Store chemicals out of reach of children and in properly labeled containers.

Expert Chemical Burn Treatment at Advanced Dermatology, P.C.

Chemical burns can be painful and unpredictable, but with expert dermatologic care, healing is possible.

At Advanced Dermatology, P.C., we help patients of all ages manage chemical burn symptoms, prevent complications, and support the healing process with compassionate, personalized treatment plans. Book an appointment today to get the care you need sooner.