Are Glow Sticks Dangerous?

What is in glow sticks? How do glow sticks work?

A glow stick is a plastic tube containing 2 reactive chemicals: hydrogen peroxide and either diphenyl oxalate (i.e., cyalume) or a phthalate (i.e., dibutyl or dimethyl phthalate). The hydrogen peroxide is contained in a glass vial, which separates it from diphenyl oxalate or phthalate, a dye and sodium salicylate, in the plastic tube. The fluorescent dye supplies the color to the glow stick, while the sodium salicylate speeds up the reaction between the chemicals. When the tube is bent, the chemicals combine, resulting in a luminescent glow. This chemical reaction is called chemiluminescence. 

Are glow sticks radioactive?

No. Glow sticks are not radioactive.

Are glow sticks poisonous? What happens if a glow stick breaks in your mouth?

Glow sticks are not poisonous and are considered non-toxic. If the glow stick breaks in your mouth, it may cause mouth irritation and tastes awful. Wipe your mouth with a wet cloth and drink water. Swallowing the liquid may result in an upset stomach.

What are glow sticks used for?

Glow sticks are usually used at night, especially at parties, concerts, and celebrations. They are especially popular around Halloween. They are available as sticks, toys, jewelry such as necklaces and bracelets, and other gimmicky items. Other uses for glow sticks include as a light source for camping, diving, and emergency services.

Do glow sticks have glass in them? 

Yes. One of the chemicals, hydrogen peroxide, is contained inside a glass vial. When you bend the glow stick you break the glass vial. This is what allows the chemicals to combine. The breaking vial is responsible for the “cracking” noise you hear when you bend the glow stick to activate it.

What should I do if I get glow stick liquid in my eye or on my skin? 

The liquid in the glow stick can be irritating and cause a burning sensation to the eyes and skin. It can cause your eyes to tear up and sting. If it gets in someone’s eye, immediately rinse the eye with running water for 15 minutes. If it gets on the skin, wash with soap and water. 

If someone swallows glow stick liquid, gets it in the eyes or on the skin, or if you have a question about using glow sticks safely, help from experts is available through the webPOISONCONTROL online tool and by phone at 1-800-222-1222. Poison Control’s expert guidance is always free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day. 

Wendy Klein-Schwartz, Pharm.D., MPH
Clinical Toxicologist

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