How to Remove Adhesive From Skin

You have a cut, so you apply medicine and you bandage it.. Then, the bandage leaves behind its adhesive. If the cut is a big one and the bandage is even bigger, it could seem like a nightmare to get all of that adhesive off of your all ready sensitive skin.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Warm compress
• Warm water
• Soft wash clothes
• Gentle soap
• Baby oil or mineral oil

Remove the bandage.

1. Remove the bandage. You can do this in a gentle way by laying a warm compress on top of the bandage. This should help to lessen the hold of the adhesive. If the bandage refuses to let loose, try using a little bit of baby oil around the outside area, but be careful not to get any into the cut itself. If you do not have any baby oil, try using mineral oil.

2. Soak the skin in warm water. If possible, allow the area to stay in the warm water for a few minutes. This will help begin the removal process of the adhesive.

3. Wash the skin with a soft wash cloth. Apply a gentle soap or detergent onto the cloth. Gently wipe the cloth over the area a few times. You may even allow the cloth to lie on the area for a few moments.

4. Wipe it dry.

5. Apply baby oil to the area. Use another wash cloth or cotton balls to saturate the area with baby oil. If you do not have baby oil in the house, mineral oil will work, too. Allow the baby oil to sit for a few minutes. Wipe away the access. Check to see if there is any remaining adhesive.

6. Consult your pharmacist for help in purchasing a medical adhesive removal pad. These are made commercially to remove adhesive from all types of bandages.

Tips & Warnings

• If the area of the skin becomes noticeably itchy or red after you bandage it, chances are you may be allergic to the adhesive in the bandage. Remove it promptly. Consult your pharmacist or physician about a different method for covering.
• Treat the irritation with a mild cortisone-based cream.
• Consider using a sterile gauze and paper first aid tape instead of bandages the next time you need to cover a cut.