How to Remove Medical Tape Residue
When you undergo a medical treatment or procedure, a bandage may be needed to cover any incisions to prevent bleeding and help the wound heal. This requires using medical tape to keep the gauze in place. However, when medical tape is left on the skin for an extended period, adhesive residue from the tape remains on the skin after the tape is removed. You can remove the residue using soap and water or rubbing alcohol.
Instructions
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Rubbing Alcohol
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1
Purchase a bottle of rubbing alcohol to remove the adhesive residue. You can find rubbing alcohol at most grocery stores or at a drugstore.
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2
Open the bottle and moisten a cotton swab with the rubbing alcohol. If you do not have a cotton swab, you can use facial tissue.
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3
If the adhesive tape is still attached to your skin, lift up a corner of the tape. Dip the end of a cotton swab into the rubbing alcohol and apply it under the tape.
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4
Slowly pull the tape and keep applying rubbing alcohol with the swab tip until the tape completely comes off.
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5
Rub the cotton swab over any adhesive residue in a slow, circular motion. The rubbing alcohol will slowly neutralize the adhesive until it no longer sticks to your skin.
Soap and Water
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6
Add a few drops of mild dish soap to a bowl of warm water. Soak a washcloth in the soapy water.
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7
Place the washcloth over the adhesive residue and let it set for about 15 to 20 minutes. The soap will need to thoroughly soak into the adhesive.
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8
Gently rub the soapy washcloth over the adhesive residue to remove it from your skin.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Rubbing alcohol is safe to use on skin and does not cause any adverse reactions. A cotton swab works well to apply the rubbing alcohol to the adhesive on your skin.
As with any chemical product, keep rubbing alcohol away from young children. Do not scrub your skin to remove the adhesive, because you may cause irritation.
