What to do if I spilled bleach (sodium hypochlorite) on my armpit?

Immediate Management of Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite) Exposure to Armpit

If you've spilled bleach on your armpit, immediately rinse the area thoroughly with cool running water for at least 15 minutes, then wash gently with mild soap and water to remove any residual chemical. 1

Initial Response to Bleach Exposure

1. Immediate rinsing:

   • Remove any contaminated clothing
   • Flush the affected area with cool running water for at least 15 minutes
   • Ensure all bleach is completely rinsed away

2. Gentle cleansing:

   • After thorough rinsing, wash the area with mild soap and water
   • Avoid scrubbing vigorously as this may damage already irritated skin
   • Pat dry gently with a clean towel

Assessment of Exposure Severity

Evaluate the following factors:

• Concentration of bleach: Household bleach typically contains 5.25-8.25% sodium hypochlorite
• Duration of contact: Longer exposure increases risk of tissue damage
• Symptoms to monitor:
  • Redness, irritation, or burning sensation
  • Pain that persists after rinsing
  • Blistering or skin breakdown
  • Signs of chemical burn

Treatment Based on Severity

For Mild Exposure (redness, minor irritation):

• Continue monitoring the area
• Apply cool compresses if there's mild irritation
• Avoid applying other chemicals or products to the area

For Moderate to Severe Exposure (pain, blistering, skin breakdown):

• Seek medical attention promptly
• Do not apply home remedies or neutralizing agents 2
• Do not cover with occlusive dressings until evaluated by a healthcare provider

Important Cautions

• Do not use vinegar or other acids to neutralize the bleach, as this chemical reaction can generate toxic chlorine gas 2
• Do not apply other household products to the affected area
• Avoid exposing the area to sunlight immediately after exposure, as this may increase irritation

When to Seek Medical Attention

Seek immediate medical care if:

• Pain persists after thorough rinsing
• Blistering or skin breakdown occurs
• The area shows signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, swelling, pus)
• You experience systemic symptoms like difficulty breathing or dizziness
• The exposure affected a large area of skin

Prevention of Complications

• Keep the area clean and dry after initial treatment
• Wear loose clothing to avoid friction on the affected area
• Monitor for signs of delayed hypersensitivity reactions, which can occur in rare cases 3
• Avoid reexposure to bleach or other harsh chemicals until healing is complete

Bleach exposure requires prompt attention to minimize tissue damage. The most critical step is immediate and thorough rinsing with water, which dilutes and removes the chemical before it can cause significant harm.