Accidental Eye Exposure to Benzoyl Peroxide: What Should I Do?
I accidentally got some benzoyl peroxide face wash in my eye and immediately rinsed it for a quarter of an hour. My eye is now red, swollen, and painful, although the discomfort is bearable. Is it okay for me to go to sleep? Although I’m inquiring about emergency care, I realize this isn’t a situation that requires immediate 911 intervention. Is a trip to the ER necessary? It’s currently 11:34 PM, so visiting urgent care isn’t an option. Would it be acceptable for me to wait until morning? About me: I’m a 30-year-old woman, weighing 135 pounds, and I’m not taking any medications at the moment.
Answers (1)
7/20/2025, 3:40:31 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's good that you rinsed your eye immediately after the benzoyl peroxide exposure, as prompt flushing is key in such situations. Your symptoms of redness, swelling, and pain are common reactions but can also indicate irritation.
Explanation
Benzoyl peroxide is a potent acne treatment that can irritate the eye. The redness and swelling you're experiencing suggest that your eye is reacting to the chemical exposure. While it’s uncomfortable, if your pain is manageable and you are not experiencing severe symptoms (such as vision changes, extreme pain, or excessive tearing), you may not need to seek immediate medical care.
Next Steps
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Continue Monitoring: Keep an eye on your symptoms overnight. If they worsen (increased pain, swelling, or vision changes), seek medical attention promptly.
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Cold Compress: Apply a clean, cold compress to the affected eye for 10-15 minutes several times through the night. This can help reduce swelling and provide some comfort.
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Avoid Rubbing: Try not to rub your eye, as this can cause further irritation and damage.
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Sleep: If the discomfort is bearable and you do not have any severe symptoms, it should be okay to go to sleep. Make sure to keep your head elevated, as this can help reduce swelling.
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Follow Up in the Morning: As soon as you are able, contact a healthcare professional or visit an urgent care center for an evaluation, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.
If you experience any warning signs such as severe pain, significant vision changes, or increased swelling, it would be advisable to seek immediate emergency care.
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