How to Remove a Skunk Scent on the Body and Hair of a Person

Skunks use their foul smelling spray in defense against enemies.

Although you can encounter animals in nature that are more dangerous than skunks, getting sprayed by a skunk is an encounter you will remember for a long time. The very powerful scent that a skunk spray gives off makes many people feel nauseous. What's worse is that the putrid smell clings to your body and spreads to anything you come into contact with. This is why it's important to remove the skunk scent from your body and hair as soon as possible.

Things You'll Need

• 1 quart of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1 teaspoon liquid soap
• Bowl
• 2 rags
• Rubber gloves
• Citrus-flavored soda
• Vinegar
• Baking soda
• Professional grade skunk scent remover

Instructions

1. Mix one quart of three percent hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a bowl. Remove any jewelry before washing yourself because your skin may be sensitive to the chemical reaction of the mixture and metal.

2. Put on rubber gloves, then dip a rag into the bowl and sponge bathe yourself. Apply the mixture to all affected areas of your body immediately while the mixture is still bubbling, which lasts for about five minutes. Remove the rubber gloves, then remove the mixture with a regular bath.

3. Pour citrus-flavored soda into the bathtub and soak your body. If you prefer a sponge bath, pour the soda in a bowl instead. Submerge a rag in the soda and ring the soda off the rag onto your hair and body. Keep the soda out of your eyes. Take a regular bath to remove the soda from your hair and body.

4. Add vinegar or baking soda to your bath water if the skunk smell persists. You can wash your hair in these mixtures safely.

5. Use a professional grade skunk scent remover for your hair and skin if the skunk scent is still evident.The skunk scent removers are much harsher and should be used only after trying homemade mixtures. Before spreading a professional product over your body, apply a dab of it onto a small patch of skin to see how your skin reacts. If your skin does not become irritated, continue using the product by following the directions on the label.

References

• University of Arkansas: Dealing with Skunks and Odor Abatement
• Skunk Odor Gone: Getting Skunk Odor Out of Clothes