Gasoline is a hydrocarbon mixture commonly used as fuel, making accidental contact frequent during activities like refueling or maintenance. The liquid contains various chemicals that pose hazards upon skin exposure, even if contact seems brief. Understanding the potential effects, from localized irritation to systemic absorption, is important for responding appropriately. The severity depends largely on the duration of contact, the amount of skin exposed, and the speed of intervention.
Immediate Local Skin Damage
Gasoline acts as a strong organic solvent that directly attacks the skin’s natural defenses upon contact. The primary mechanism of damage is the dissolution of lipids, the fatty substances that make up the skin’s barrier layer (stratum corneum). This “defatting” process strips away essential components like ceramides and fatty acids, compromising the skin’s integrity and moisture content. Removing these protective oils leads to rapid dryness and compromises the skin’s ability to retain water.
This chemical irritation commonly results in contact dermatitis, characterized by redness, itching, and a burning sensation. Prolonged exposure, such as when contaminated clothing remains against the skin, can cause severe damage resembling a chemical burn, potentially leading to first- or second-degree injuries. Extended contact may cause hyperkeratosis, cracking, peeling, and blistering. Depleting the lipid barrier also increases the skin’s permeability, facilitating the absorption of toxic components into the body.
Risks of Systemic Absorption
Beyond surface damage, gasoline components, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like benzene, toluene, and xylene, can be absorbed into the bloodstream. While absorption through intact skin is generally slow, large or prolonged exposure can lead to systemic toxicity. Because gasoline is highly volatile, vapors are often present, allowing these compounds to enter the body through the lungs as well.
The most common internal effect of hydrocarbon exposure is Central Nervous System (CNS) depression. Initial systemic symptoms include lightheadedness, headache, and dizziness. Increased exposure can lead to mental confusion, staggering gait, slurred speech, or nausea. Gasoline contains benzene, a known carcinogen, and chronic dermal exposure presents long-term health risks. Strong vapor inhalation or accidental ingestion also carries the risk of chemical pneumonitis, a serious lung injury.
Essential First Aid and Medical Intervention
Immediate action is necessary to minimize local damage and the risk of internal absorption. First, move away from the spill source and remove all contaminated clothing. Saturated clothing must be carefully taken off to prevent prolonged skin contact. This clothing should be double-bagged for proper disposal or washing, as trapped fuel continues to damage the skin and release vapors.
The affected skin area must be flushed thoroughly with plain, cool, or lukewarm water for at least 15 to 20 minutes. After the initial rinsing, gently wash the area with mild soap to help break down residual hydrocarbons. Avoid scrubbing, which causes further irritation. Do not use hot water, as heat can increase the rate of chemical absorption through the skin.
Medical attention is necessary if the skin shows signs of deep injury, such as blistering, severe redness, or pain, or if the exposure covered a large body area. Monitoring for signs of systemic toxicity is also important, including any change in mental status, persistent dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Anyone experiencing these internal symptoms, or if ingestion or strong vapor inhalation is suspected, should immediately contact Poison Control or seek emergency medical services.