Alcohol is not a corrosive chemical so ordinary isopropyl alcohol does not cause burns when used. However, one may get burned if alcohol catches fire and touches the skin. The right treatment for alcohol burns depends on the severity of the injury. Minor burns or first-degree burns damage only the outer skin layer and may heal within a few days. Major burns such as second- or third-degree burns affect the layers and tissues under the skin and may appear swollen and wet, and develop painful blisters, or in severe cases charred the skin black.
Step 1
Rinse the affected area under cool, running water for 20 minutes to remove any remaining alcohol from the skin. If alcohol splashed into the eyes, flush them with water immediately.
Step 2
Wash the burned area again if the person complains of increased burning after the first wash.
Step 3
Cover the burned area with a dry, sterile dressing or clean cloth. Keep pressure or friction off of the affected area. Give over-the-counter pain reliever.
Step 4
Call 911 if there are signs of major burns anywhere on the body; if the burned area is more than 3 inches in diameter; if the eyes, hands, feet, face or groins are affected; or if the person is in shock or unmanageable pain.
Things You'll Need
- Sterile Gauze or Dressing
- Over-the-counter Pain Reliever
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