How to Get Oil-Based Paint Out of Hair

Cleaning up oil-based paint can be tricky.

A big painting project can become much bigger if you are using oil-based paint. Unlike latex paint, oil paint requires special cleaning products to remove. Oil-based paint repels water so you can't wash up with soap and water. Turpentine is effective at dissolving oil-based paint, however, it is harsh on the skin and hair. If you happen to get paint in your hair, you can first try out some safer, everyday items to remove it.

Things You'll Need

• Hair clips
• Baby oil
• Olive oil
• Turpentine
• Soft cloths
• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Wide-toothed comb

Instructions

1. Separate the affected portion of hair from the rest. Clip your clean hair up and away from the stuck paint.

2. Soak the hair in baby oil. Allow the oil to sit on your hair for about 10 minutes. This will give it time to penetrate and dissolve the paint.

3. Massage the oil into the paint to help loosen it from hair. Wipe the oil and paint off your hair using a soft cloth.

4. Soak the hair in olive oil for 10 minutes.

5. Rub the oil into the paint to further dissolve and loosen the paint from your hair, then wipe it away with your soft cloth.

6. Add a drop of turpentine to the cloth. Press it onto the paint in your hair and hold in place for three minutes. Avoid using too much turpentine or holding it on your hair for too long as the chemicals can damage your hair.

7. Wipe away the paint and turpentine with the cloth.

8. Wash and condition your hair. While the conditioner is still in, comb through your hair to remove any final remnants of paint. Rinse and dry as usual.

Tips & Warnings

• Use turpentine in a well-ventilated area. Always read the instructions and warning on the bottle before using.

References

• Paint Splashes: How to Get Paint Off the Skin
• Techlib: Paint and Adhesive Removal
• Hair Boutique: You Got What In Your Hair?