How to Remove Coal Tar From Fingers

Used to treat various skin conditions as well as an alternative for asphalt, coal tar is the byproduct from destructive distillation of bituminous coal. This black, sticky liquid can become quite a mess when it comes in contact with your skin. Furthermore, coal tar can make your skin more sensitive to light states St. John Providence Health System and stain your skin. To prevent possible side effects, remove the coal tar from your fingers as soon as possible.

Things You'll Need

• Paper towels
• Trash can
• Grease-cutting dish soap
• Soft cloth
• Towel

Instructions

1. Remove excess coal tar with several paper towels. Discard the soiled paper towels in the nearest trash can.

2. Fill a clean sink with warm water and add several drops of grease-cutting liquid dish soap. Submerge the coal tar and fingers into the soapy water.

3. Gently scrub the submerged fingers with a soft cloth. Let the fingers soak in the water for several minutes if the coal tar remains. Continue scrubbing the tar off the skin with the soft cloth.

4. Rinse your fingers with cool, running water and wipe dry with a towel.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Coal Tar (Topical Route)
• State of New Jersey Health Department: Coal Tar Pitch
• Copeland Coating Co., Inc.: Pavement Maintenance Products