Just What We Need...

Boy, I sure haven't been here in a while. But, when I saw a certain FDA alert come across my email, I simply could not resist but put something here about it.

Apparently, there is a nail polish remover that could cause chemical burns to fingers. As if hand surgeons did not have enough to worry about, what with manicures and people accessorizing their fingernails.

Most chemical burns peel within a week like a sunburn would, but it is important to take a few steps if you should get a burn. First, stop using the product (simple, but important). If the chemical is dry (ie: lime), brush as much of it off as possible--wear a glove or do this with a towel so you do not burn the brushing hand. Next, take off any jewelry, rings, or contaminated clothing. Flush the affected body part with running cool water for at least 15 minutes. Apply a cool, wet cloth to relieve pain, and then dry and wrap loosely with a dry sterile dressing. Flush with more cool water if intense burning is still experienced. In the following days, wash the area with soap and water, dry thoroughly and apply a loose dry sterile dressing to the area until it heals. Once the skin has grown in, you can start massaging the area to lessen the chance of scar formation.

Seek emergency care if the victim feels faint, has shallow or rapid breathing, or is pale. Also, seek emergency care if the burn is over a joint, on the face, hands, or in the groin or is larger than 8 cm. If you are not sure what to do, call 911 or your poison control center.