Vicks VapoRub on Broken Skin: Safety and Consequences

When it comes to using Vicks VapoRub, a common over-the-counter remedy for cold symptoms, it's essential to consider its impact on broken or damaged skin. In this article, we will explore what happens when Vicks VapoRub is applied to broken skin, the potential risks involved, and the safety measures you should follow.

The Composition of Vicks VapoRub

The base of Vicks VapoRub consists primarily of liquid paraffin, which is a moisturizing agent. However, the preparation also contains camphor, a terpinoid with the formula C10-H16-O. While this compound may provide relief from congestion and muscle aches, it is not advisable to apply it to broken skin due to potential health risks.

Camphor and Its Toxicity

According to WebMD, it is crucial not to apply camphor to broken skin because it can be absorbed quickly and reach potentially toxic levels. Camphor, like many terpinoids, has both low-dose and high-dose toxicity. Ingesting as little as four grams of pure camphor can be fatal, although Vicks VapoRub contains only 4.8% camphor. This makes it significantly less toxic than pure camphor.

For additional information on camphor's toxicity, refer to the Wikipedia article on Camphor. The high-dose toxicity of camphor can cause severe symptoms, including stomach pain, nausea, seizures, spasms, thirst, rapid pulse, agitation, and shortness of breath. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control center immediately.

Precautions and Risks

While Vicks VapoRub is safe for use on intact skin when following the directions, there are still concerns when applied to broken skin. Applying it to injured skin can lead to additional risks:

Ingestion: Young children, especially toddlers, might ingest the product, which can be dangerous. Keep Vicks VapoRub out of the reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. Liver toxicity: Infants have a more sensitive liver compared to older children and adults. Therefore, Vicks VapoRub should never be used on infants as it may cause liver toxicity. Toxic effects: Even if the camphor content does not reach toxic levels through broken skin, the application to injured skin may still introduce other risks. The chemical compounds in Vicks VapoRub can irritate the skin and potentially cause allergic reactions.

Historically, the use of 20% camphor oil was associated with more cases of camphor poisoning, but this formulation has been discontinued. Nowadays, products like Vicks VapoRub, which contain milder and safer formulations, have significantly reduced the incidence of camphor-related incidents.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Vicks VapoRub is generally safe for use on intact skin when used correctly, it is not advisable to apply it to broken skin. The presence of camphor poses risks, particularly for young children and infants. Always follow the product instructions, keep Vicks VapoRub out of reach of children, and avoid applying it to broken or injured skin. If you have any concerns or experience adverse reactions, consult a healthcare professional.