First aid for hot tar or hot plastic burns


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First aid for hot tar or hot plastic burns


Immediately run cold water over the hot tar or hot plastic to cool the tar or plastic and stop the burning.

Do not attempt to peel the tar or plastic off after it has cooled. This may remove skin that is stuck to the tar or plastic. To remove tar or plastic, loosen it with mineral oil or ointments such as Vaseline or Polysporin. Tar will likely peel off after a few days as the skin cells below the tar flake off normally.

After the tar or plastic is removed, wash and treat the burned skin. If you have any difficulty removing tar or plastic from the skin, an evaluation by a health professional is needed.

Credits


Author Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Editor Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Last Updated February 2, 2007

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Last updated: February 02, 2007
Author: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Reviewed By: William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Editors: Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC, Tracy Landauer

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.

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