How to Remove Adhesive Bandage Remains From the Skin
Adhesive bandages are meant to stay put for a while. This naturally means that when you remove them, some adhesive--or even part of the bandage--may remain stuck. This is both unsightly and annoying. You have an easy and cheap way to remove bandage remains, without harming or irritating your skin.
Instructions
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1
Dampen a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol. Alcohol is a mild solvent and may dissolve the adhesive. Just rub it over the area but avoid getting it on the wound, however, as it will sting. If the alcohol does not work--perhaps in cases where there is a lot of residue left--then continue to Step 2.
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2
Use another cotton ball, saturated with either baby oil or vegetable oil, and rub this over the adhesive. Make sure to thoroughly saturate the area with the oil. The oil won’t harm your skin but will help loosen the adhesive. If the adhesive is thick, you may need to leave the oil on your skin for a few minutes.
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3
Wash away the oil and the rest of the adhesive with soap and a warm, wet wash cloth. Rinse your skin with clean water. If any residue remains, apply oil and repeat the process, this time letting the oil soak longer.
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Tips & Warnings
You also can find commercial products specifically for removing bandage residue. Look for these at your local drugstore or ask your pharmacist.
Acetone, found in fingernail polish, also is good for removing adhesives--but use it sparingly and wash your skin well after using it.
Be extra careful using any product around a surgical incision--avoid getting any products actually on the incision. Work around it.
