Inflammation and blistering similar to sunburn may occur after heavy or prolonged exposure, especially in fair skin. Acute contact dermatitis should be managed initially in the same way as any other acute dermatitis. Corticosteroid cream or calamine lotion may be applied to treat existing dermatitis or to limit delayed erythema. Oozing may be treated with wet dressings of 1 in 40 aluminium acetate solution for 30 minutes three times daily. A topical steroid should follow the wet dressing immediately.
Secondary infection is treated with appropriate antibiotics.
Significant pruritus can be treated with calamine lotion or corticosteroid preparations. If blisters develop these should be treated as any other second degree burn. In the rare event of pulmonary effects from massive exposure, evacuation is required. Course and Prognosis. Most personnel affected by riot control agents require no medical attention and casualties are rare.