Super glue (cyanoacrylate adhesive) is a fast-acting bonding agent. Because the chemical reaction that causes the glue to cure is initiated by moisture, tears and the moist surfaces of the eye cause the glue to harden almost instantly upon contact. While this situation is alarming, it is important to remain calm. The injury is often manageable with quick first aid, but the primary risk comes from secondary injury caused by attempting to remove the glue improperly.
Immediate Steps for Cleaning the Eyeball
The first step is to flush the eye continuously with water or saline. Immediate, sustained irrigation helps dilute the chemical and reduces the rate at which the cyanoacrylate hardens. This action is directed at the eye globe itself to wash away any liquid adhesive before it bonds to the delicate tissues.
Use a gentle, steady stream of lukewarm water from a shower, a clean pitcher, or an emergency eyewash station. The flushing should last for a minimum of 15 to 20 minutes to ensure adequate rinsing of the ocular surface. During this time, the eye should be held open as much as possible to allow the water to reach all surfaces, even if it is uncomfortable.
The goal of prolonged flushing is to physically remove the adhesive and separate any specks of glue that may have adhered to the cornea or conjunctiva. Cyanoacrylate on the eyeball surface will eventually detach naturally within a few hours to a few days, as the eye’s natural lubrication and shedding process breaks the bond. Continuous irrigation supports this process and helps prevent the dry, cured glue from scratching the cornea. Never use acetone or other chemical solvents near the eye, as these substances are highly toxic and can cause severe chemical burns.
Addressing Glued Eyelids and Skin
A common complication is the eyelids or eyelashes becoming bonded together, a condition referred to as tarsorrhaphy. This occurs because the reflex to blink pushes the adhesive to the lid margins and lashes, where the glue hardens and seals the eye shut. If the eyelids are stuck, the priority shifts to gently releasing the external bond without causing skin tears or corneal injury.
Do not attempt to pull the eyelids apart with force, as this can severely damage the thin eyelid skin or cause a corneal abrasion. The most effective approach is to apply a warm, moist compress to the bonded area. Soaking the area with a wet gauze or washcloth for several minutes helps to soften the cured glue.
After soaking, apply a substance like petroleum jelly, mineral oil, or a thick ophthalmic antibiotic ointment liberally to the glued area. The oily nature of these products lubricates and weakens the adhesive bond over time, allowing the skin cells to naturally separate from the glue. The eyelids may need to be gently rolled or peeled apart using a blunt edge, like a cotton swab, rather than being pulled.
Signs Requiring Emergency Medical Attention
Seeking professional medical attention is necessary following any ocular exposure, even if the incident seems resolved. An eye care specialist, such as an ophthalmologist, has the specialized tools to perform a thorough examination and ensure no serious underlying injury occurred, especially if the glue bonded directly to the cornea.
You should seek immediate emergency medical care if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent, severe pain after flushing.
- Significantly impaired vision.
- A feeling that something is constantly scratching the eye, which may indicate a corneal abrasion.
- The eyelid cannot be gently separated after several hours of warm compress application.
Medical professionals can use fine forceps to remove glue particles from the eye’s surface or trim the eyelashes to separate the lids.
An ophthalmologist can use a fluorescein stain and a slit lamp microscope to check for damage to the cornea or conjunctiva that may not be visible to the naked eye. They may prescribe antibiotic drops or ointments to prevent infection, especially if a corneal abrasion is present.