Chin Laceration, Skin Glue (Child)
A chin laceration is a cut in the skin of the chin. The skin may be cut in a fall, or by a sharp object or fingernail. It can bleed, and cause redness and swelling.
A chin laceration is first treated with pressure to stop any bleeding. The area is then cleaned with soap and clean, running water. A cut that is not deep can be closed with skin glue. Skin glue is used on lacerations that have smooth edges, are just on the surface, and are not infected. Skin glue is less painful than stitches. It may also cause less scarring.
In cases of a deeper cut, a lower layer of skin may be closed with stitches first. Then skin glue may be used to close the upper layer of skin. The skin glue closes the cut within a few minutes. It also leaves a water-resistant covering on the skin. This can allow for faster healing. No bandage is needed. Skin glue peels off on its own within 5 to 10 days.
Certain types of skin glues can’t be used if your child has an allergy to latex or formaldehyde. Tell the health care provider right away if your child has an allergy.
Your child may also need a tetanus shot. This is given if the cause of the laceration may cause tetanus, and if your child is not up-to-date on vaccines.
Home care
The provider may prescribe antibiotics. These are to prevent infection. They may be pills or a liquid for your child to take by mouth. Use the antibiotics as instructed every day until they are gone. Don’t stop giving them to your child if they feel better.
If your child has pain, you can give them pain medicine as advised by your child’s provider. Don't give ibuprofen to a child age 6 months or younger. Never give aspirin to your child unless your child's provider tells you it is safe. Aspirin can lead to a very serious liver disease called Reye syndrome.
General care
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Follow the provider’s instructions for how to care for the laceration.
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Wash your hands with soap and clean, running water before and after caring for your child. This is to prevent infection.
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Change bandages or dressings as directed. Replace any bandage that becomes wet or dirty.
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Don’t soak the laceration in water for 7 to 10 days. If your child is old enough, have them take showers instead of baths during this time. Use a clean cloth to gently pat the area dry if it gets wet.
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Don’t use lotion or ointment on the laceration. They may cause the skin glue to peel off.
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Make sure your child does not scratch, rub, or pick at the area.
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While the glue is in place, keep the wound out of prolonged direct sunlight, especially in the summer months. After the glue falls off, continue to stay out of direct sunlight, or use a sunscreen with a high level of protection. Sunburn or sun exposure can increase scarring.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your child’s provider as advised.
Special note to parents
If the skin glue does not peel off after 10 days, use petroleum jelly or an antibiotic ointment on the skin to remove the skin glue.
When to contact your child's doctor
Contact your child's provider right away if:
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Your child has a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your child's provider.
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The wound reopens or bleeds a lot.
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The pain gets worse.
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The redness or swelling gets worse.
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A foul-smelling fluid drains from the wound.