How to Remove an Adhesive From the Body

Bandage adhesive can seem impossible to remove when the bandage is taken off.

Whether you've had a bandage on your skin for a long time, or you've managed to get Super Glue on yourself, strong adhesives can be very difficult to remove. Although bandage or tape adhesive may not cause you any injuries, it can be quite annoying on your skin. On the other hand, Super Glue, or other strong bonding adhesives, can cause injuries. There are simple tricks that work to remove the adhesive of bandages and tapes, as well as bonding glues.

Things You'll Need

• Mild hand soap
• Washcloth
• Baby oil or Orange Oil
• Mild dishwashing soap
• Bowl
• Nail polish remover with acetone

Instructions

Removing Bandage or Tape Adhesives

1. Soak the body part with the remaining adhesive in warm water. The warm water will help to loosen and soften the adhesive glue.

2. Apply a few drops of mild hand soap to the adhesive, and gently rub the soap into the skin using a washcloth. This should remove the majority of the adhesive.

3. Apply a few drop of baby oil or orange oil onto the remaining adhesive. You can also use products like Goo Gone of Goof Off on the adhesive, as well.

4. Rub the oil into the adhesive using the washcloth. All of the adhesive will be removed. Wash the skin thoroughly with a mild hand soap, then dry completely.

Removing Bonding Adhesives

1. Pour a few drops of mild dishwashing soap into a bowl. Fill the rest of the bowl up with warm water.

2. Soak the adhesive-affected area in the soapy water. Let it sit for 10 minutes.

3. Roll the skin apart gently. Peel any remaining glue from the body. If the soapy water doesn't remove all of the adhesive, continue to Step 4.

4. Pour nail polish remover with acetone into a medium-sized bowl. Immerse the skin in the bowl and allow the skin to soak for three minutes. The acetone in the nail polish remover will break down and remove any remaining glue. If soaking is impossible, use a cotton ball or cotton swab doused with acetone.

5. Wash the affected area with soap and water, then dry thoroughly.

Tips & Warnings

• Never apply nail polish remover with (or without) acetone to your lips, eyes or eyelids. Should you get bonding glue on your lips, eyes or eyelids, rinse the area with warm water and call your family doctor. You can also flush your eyes with warmed 3% sodium bicarbonate solution.

References

• Super Glue Corporation: Removing Super Glue