Removing strong adhesive from your skin during a project is an annoying, sticky situation. It happens to the best of us, even when we think we’re making every effort to avoid glue-to-skin contact. The good news is that there are safe and effective removal methods that can help you remove a bit of glue from your skin.

“If you get super glue on your fingers, don't panic. In fact, it happens quite often. Super glue reacts quickly with the moisture in your skin. Act fast with warm, soapy water, a little agitation, rinse and repeat,” said Ashanti McKissic, Product Expert at The Flex Seal Family of Products.

Resist the temptation to wipe and spread the superglue. Avoid using abrasive brushes on your skin, too. It might feel like it will be there for days, but it won't; the glue will come off. 

Strong adhesives like The Original Super Glue, Krazy Glue, Flex Super Glue, and Gorilla Glue won’t harm your skin if you're careful, but improper removal of polymer-based glues (cyanoacrylate adhesives) can cause skin damage! The easiest and most effective solution is to soak the area in warm, soapy water.

1. Rinse With Warm Water

  • Start by washing your hands with soap and water in an effort to remove excess adhesive.
  • If the adhesive has not hardened, use a paper towel to remove some of the wet glue from the surface of your skin.

2. Soak Your Skin in Warm, Soapy Water

Many types of superglues are 100% waterproof, some more than others!

  • Start by soaking the affected area in a simple solution of liquid soap and warm water. Use a damp cloth if the adhesive is on a delicate area; getting glue off lips, eyelids, or other sensitive skin may also require medical attention.
  • If the glue has already dried, soak the affected area in warm or hot water for 60 seconds. That's enough time to permeate some water-resistant formulas and loosen the glue.
  • If the superglue covers a large area of your skin, extend the soaking time.
Hand soaks in soapy, warm water to loosen bond between dried superglue and the skin.
Soak your skin in soapy water to loosen the bond of the adhesive. Credit: Emily Fazio

3. Gently Peel or Roll it Off

Once you’ve loosened the bond, you can easily peel the stuck glue off skin.

  • It’s always best to try and remove the glue with your fingers or a soft washcloth. If you need something mildly abrasive, try a pumice stone or a nail file.
  • Try to gently peel or roll the superglue off your skin with a circular motion. Don't force it. If the bond hasn't loosened, it may tear your skin. Avoid using sharp items like razor blades or putty knives.

4. Choose a Solvent or Lubricant

If the glue is stubborn, use a glue solvent or lubricant to help loosen the glue bond and dissolve the adhesive. Avoid harsh chemicals that'll bother your skin—there are other simple methods that work:

  • Acetone (like acetone-based nail polish remover) and rubbing alcohol will help dissolve the superglue
  • White vinegar and lemon juice are slightly less acidic alternatives to acetone
  • Common household items like vegetable oil, coconut oil, olive oil, and petroleum jelly are good for sensitive skin
  • Liquid laundry detergent is also great if you want a concentrated soap

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5. Apply the Treatment

  • Apply a small amount of cleaner to the affected area using a cotton ball or cotton swab.
  • Let it sit for a few moments.
  • Gently rub the glue and watch it peel away.

6. Wash Off Remaining Residue

After you remove super glue, wash your hands again with soap and water to remove any residue.

7. Moisturize Your Skin

Apply a moisturizer to rehydrate your skin. Acetone is one product that can dry your skin out quickly.