What is Domeboro: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Apr 24, 2024  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Domeboro overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Domeboro, Gordon’s Boro-Packs, Pedinol Pedi-Boro Soak

Generic Names:

  • Burow’s solution, aluminum acetate topical solution

Uses:

  • Relieves minor skin irritations

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Astringent, dermatological agent, carboxylic acid

Forms:

  • Powder

How it’s taken:

  • Topically

What is Domeboro used for?

Domeboro Medicated Soak is used to relieve skin irritation, itching, burning, and swelling due to a variety of causes, including poisoned plants, insect bites, athlete’s foot, blisters, and infections such as chickenpox, shingles, and other herpes skin infections.

What form(s) does Domeboro come in

  • Powder

    • 2.7 grams (aluminum sulfate tetradecahydrate / calcium acetate monohydrate) per packet

What are common Domeboro doses?

  • Soak or apply compress for 15–30 minutes with solution prepared with 1, 2, or 3 packets in 1 pint water (0.16%, 0.32%, or 0.48% aluminum acetate solution)

Common Domeboro prescriptions

  • Domeboro
    100 packet box

  • Domeboro
    12 packet box

How to take Domeboro

  • Follow the instructions on the Domeboro label.

  • The powder contains two chemicals that, when mixed in water, react to form aluminum acetate, a chemical that pulls water from the skin.

  • Pour 1, 2, or 3 Domeboro powder packs into one pint of cool or warm water.

  • Stir the solution until the powder is completely dissolved.

  • How to use Domeboro soak 

    • Soak the affected skin three times a day for 15–30 minutes or for as long as instructed by a healthcare professional

    • Discard the solution after each soak

  • How to apply Domeboro compresses or wet dressings

    • Soak a clean cloth or dressing in the solution

    • Apply the cloth to the affected skin for 15–30 minutes

    • Repeat the compress or wet dressing as often as needed or as instructed by a healthcare professional

    • Discard the solution after each soak

  • To store Domeboro, keep it from excessive heat.

What to do if you miss a dose of Domeboro

  • A missed soak or compress can be administered at any time.

Domeboro contraindications

  • You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to any ingredients.

Domeboro warnings

  • If Domeboro is used too often or treatment is applied for too long, it could cause skin dryness and irritation.

  • Do not swallow Domeboro powder or solution. If someone swallows this medicine, get immediate medical attention or call a poison helpline. 

  • Do not use Domeboro near the eyes or allow the solution to get in the eyes.

  • Do not cover a Domeboro compress or wet dressing with plastic.

  • If symptoms don’t improve or worsen after seven days, stop using Domeboro and talk to a healthcare provider.

Domeboro interactions

  • Domeboro does not have any listed drug interactions.

  • Avoid using other skin products on the treated skin unless a healthcare provider has been consulted.

  • In particular, using other astringents may cause excessive dryness, redness, or irritation.

Domeboro side effects

Serious side effects

Talk to a healthcare provider if you notice any signs or symptoms of a possible serious side effect, including:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

Less serious side effects

  • Dry skin

  • Irritated skin

  • Inflammation

Sources: