Accidental Skin Contact with Eco-Friendly Degreaser: Risks and Precautions

Q: Accidental Skin Contact with Eco-Friendly Degreaser: Risks and Precautions

Dear Mr. <br>Zhi：<br>1. <br>According to the information published on the CPC Corporation website, the Kuo Guang brand cleaning naphtha is a fast-drying aliphatic solvent with a boiling point ranging from 60 to 107°C. <br>Its characteristics include low sulfur content and no odor

Contact with stain remover on the skin?

Hello, doctor.
Today, while using an environmentally friendly degreaser, I accidentally got it all over my hands.
My hands feel cool, similar to the sensation of alcohol.
Is this due to evaporation? I washed my hands immediately.
Should I be concerned about poisoning or any effects on my body? Do I need to seek medical attention?

Zhi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/10/04

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Mr.
Zhi:
1.
According to the information published on the CPC Corporation website, the Kuo Guang brand cleaning naphtha is a fast-drying aliphatic solvent with a boiling point ranging from 60 to 107°C.
Its characteristics include low sulfur content and no odor.
It can be used for general household cleaning, cleaning of mechanical parts, and adhesive formulation.
2.
The common routes of poisoning are through inhalation, ingestion, or exposure to the eyes or skin.
First aid measures for different exposure routes are as follows:
1.
If inhaled:
a.
Remove the source of contamination or move the patient to fresh air.
b.
If breathing or heartbeat has stopped, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); however, rescuers should be cautious to avoid poisoning themselves.
c.
Seek immediate medical attention.
2.
If skin contact occurs:
a.
Move the affected person away from the contaminated area, remove contaminated clothing, and wash the skin with soap and water.
b.
If the skin still feels painful or prickly, seek immediate medical attention.
c.
If the skin only feels dry, observe for six hours before deciding whether to seek medical attention.
3.
If there is eye contact:
a.
Move the affected person away from the contaminated area and rinse the eyes with water for at least fifteen minutes.
b.
Seek immediate medical attention.
4.
If ingested:
a.
If the person vomits on their own, ensure they do not choke.
b.
Do not induce vomiting in the poisoned individual to avoid the risk of chemical aspiration pneumonia.
c.
Seek immediate medical attention.
(Note: The descriptions from the CPC Corporation website have been modified slightly due to some differences from current first aid concepts.)
6.
Therefore, your handling of the situation is correct.
However, if you still feel uncertain, you may consult a dermatologist or your family physician for further assistance.

Reply Date: 2018/10/04

More Info

Accidental skin contact with eco-friendly degreasers, particularly those containing organic solvents and surfactants, can raise concerns regarding potential health risks. The sensation you described, where your hands felt cool and similar to alcohol, is likely due to the volatile nature of the solvents present in the degreaser. When these solvents evaporate, they can create a cooling effect on the skin, which is a common characteristic of many volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Risks of Skin Contact
1. Skin Irritation: Many degreasers, even those labeled as eco-friendly, can cause skin irritation. Symptoms may include redness, itching, or a burning sensation. Prolonged exposure can lead to dermatitis, which is an inflammation of the skin.

2. Chemical Burns: Depending on the concentration of the active ingredients, there is a risk of chemical burns, especially if the product is left on the skin for an extended period. While eco-friendly products are generally less harsh than traditional solvents, they can still be harmful.

3. Systemic Absorption: Although the skin acts as a barrier, certain chemicals can be absorbed into the bloodstream, especially if there are cuts or abrasions on the skin. This could potentially lead to systemic effects, although this is more common with prolonged exposure or high concentrations.

4. Respiratory Issues: If the degreaser is aerosolized or if fumes are inhaled, there could be respiratory implications. Symptoms may include coughing, shortness of breath, or throat irritation.

Immediate Actions
Since you mentioned that you washed your hands immediately after the contact, this is a crucial first step in minimizing potential harm. Here are some additional precautions:
- Wash Thoroughly: Ensure you wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This helps to remove any residual chemicals that may remain on the skin.

- Moisturize: After washing, apply a gentle moisturizer to help restore the skin barrier, especially if you experience any dryness or irritation.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your skin for any signs of irritation or allergic reaction. If you notice redness, swelling, or persistent discomfort, it may be wise to consult a healthcare professional.

When to Seek Medical Attention
You should consider seeking medical attention if:
- Severe Irritation: If you experience significant redness, swelling, or pain that does not improve with home care.

- Allergic Reaction: Signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat, require immediate medical attention.

- Persistent Symptoms: If you develop any unusual symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, or respiratory issues after exposure, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

Conclusion
In summary, while accidental skin contact with an eco-friendly degreaser can pose risks, immediate washing and monitoring for symptoms can significantly mitigate these risks. Most eco-friendly products are designed to be safer for both users and the environment, but it is always prudent to handle any chemical product with care. If you have any lingering concerns or symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.

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