What should I do if a tick spray gets on the skin? - briefly
Rinse the exposed skin thoroughly with plenty of water and mild soap, then remove and launder any contaminated clothing separately; if irritation, redness, or other symptoms appear, seek medical advice without delay.
What should I do if a tick spray gets on the skin? - in detail
If a tick‑control aerosol contacts the skin, begin with a rapid flush of the affected area using lukewarm water. Keep the water running for at least 15 seconds, allowing the liquid to disperse fully. Do not use hot water, which can open pores and increase absorption of chemicals.
After rinsing, remove any clothing that may have been sprayed. Place the garments in a sealed bag to prevent cross‑contamination of other surfaces. Wash the skin with a mild, fragrance‑free soap, gently lathering for 30 seconds before rinsing again. Avoid vigorous scrubbing, which can irritate the epidermis.
If the product label lists a specific antidote or neutralising agent (for example, an oil‑based cleanser for certain pyrethroids), apply it according to the manufacturer’s directions. In the absence of such guidance, a thorough soap‑water wash remains the safest approach.
Inspect the skin for redness, swelling, blisters, or a burning sensation. Document any symptoms and the time of exposure. If irritation persists beyond a few minutes, or if systemic signs appear—such as dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, or difficulty breathing—seek medical attention immediately. Contact local poison‑control services and provide the product name, active ingredient, and amount of exposure.
Finally, store the spray in a locked, child‑proof container away from food preparation areas. Keep the safety data sheet accessible for future reference and for sharing with healthcare professionals if needed.