Treatment for Fiberglass Skin Irritations
Fiberglass insulation, while relatively safe for construction projects when properly handled, is a difficult material to deal with. Exposure to the skin, respiratory tract, and eyes can cause itching and discomfort -- not due to an allergy but because of the irritating nature of the fibers. If your skin is exposed to fiberglass, you'll want to take the following steps to prevent further irritation.
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Remove Your Tainted Clothing
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If you are experiencing irritation of the skin due to fiberglass exposure, the first thing you should do is change your clothing. The fibers may be stuck to your clothing and will continue to irritate you as long as they are present. Remove your clothing carefully so that you do not inhale the fiberglass fibers or get them in your eyes.
Rinse with Cool Water
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Rinse your body with cool water only. If you rinse with hot water, the warmth will stimulate your pores and cause them to open, giving the fiberglass a place to settle. Rinsing with cool or cold water will ensure your skin's pores remain closed as the fiberglass is rinsed off of the surface of your body.
Topical Ointments
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In many cases the fiberglass particles will cause contact dermatitis, a reaction that can sometime feel like a low-grade chemical burn, especially if you scratch the affected area and rub the fibers into your skin. If this is the case, you will want to seek the advice of your physician as she may want to prescribe a topical corticosteroid or some other cream to help sooth and heal your damaged skin.
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