How should you treat chemical burns on the skin?

Flushing a chemical burn with water immediately is the most crucial first step in treating such injuries. The primary objective is to remove the chemical substance from the skin to prevent further damage. Water helps to dilute and wash away the chemical, reducing the potential for tissue injury and inflammation.

Applying ointment immediately is not advisable since it can trap the chemical against the skin and exacerbate the injury. Bandaging the area tightly is also inappropriate, as it can restrict blood flow and may cause further harm to the damaged tissue. Covering with ice could lead to additional injury by freezing the skin, and it is not effective for treating a chemical burn. In contrast, flushing with water effectively minimizes harm and promotes healing by removing the harmful substance from the affected area.