This study determines the in vivo percutaneous absorption of paraquat in humans. Three skin sites of application were used in a crossover manner for six subjects. The percents of applied dose (9 μg/cm2) absorbed were 0.29 ± 0.2 (SD) for the leg, 0.23 ± 0.1 for the hand, and 0.29 ± 0.1 for the forearm. This gives an in vivo absorption rate of 0.03 μg/cm2for the 24‐h exposure. Paraquat can be absorbed in vivo through the skin of humans; however, it is considered a minimally absorbed chemical.