Superglue is a very strong adhesive that creates a quick bond in seconds.
This article will cover how to remove superglue from the skin.
It will also discuss safety precautions when removing superglue and how to avoid getting it on the skin.
Laurence Mouton / Getty Images
Laurence Mouton / Getty Images
What Removes Superglue From the Skin?
Water on surfaces and in the air is enough to initiate the superglue’s hardening process.
Superglue that gets stuck to the skin can be removed using several different methods.
Below are various ways to remove superglue from the skin.
It may take several washings to soften the glue.
This method tends to be most effective when the superglue has not completely hardened.
Acetone is an ingredient in some nail polish removers.
Acetone softens the chemical bonds of dried superglue, making it possible to remove it from the skin.
Pour a small amount of acetone over the superglue and gently rub it in.
The superglue should loosen and can be peeled off like a bandage.
Oils
Oils can help loosen superglue on the skin.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a natural alternative to removing superglue from the skin.
Superglue Removers
Superglue removers are sold in stores and online.
While these products can be used to remove superglue from the skin, they can also be irritating.
Be sure to follow the product’s instruction label.
However, this should be done carefully as it’s easy to tear the skin.
When possible, combine the above methods to dissolve the superglue first before slowly peeling it off.
Pass the pumice stone over the superglue to remove it.
A potential side effect of getting superglue on the skin is superglueburn.
The reaction can cause dermatitis (swelling and irritation) and itching.
It can also cause a fast, hot skin reaction that causes aburn injury.
Superglue Safety
Superglue is a fast-drying liquid that bonds various items together.
Thetoxicityis considered to be low but still can cause skin, eye, andmouth irritation.
It can cause serious issues when not used properly.
Do not get superglue on the skin,eyelids, or mouth.
Do not attempt to peel off superglue that has hardened on the skin.
First, wash the area with warm water and soap to soften it.
Then apply acetone to dissolve the glue.
Once it is loose, then it can be carefully peeled off.
Are There Long-Term Effects From Superglue Stuck to the Skin?
Superglue is a relatively safe glue that typically does not cause long-term effects.
However, the glue can causecontact dermatitisthat looks like a burn in some people.
A Word From Verywell
Superglue provides a strong bond on most materials and surfaces.
It is used to close lacerations, particularly in children, because it is relatively painless and quick drying.
But it is difficult to remove it from the skin if it gets where it is not needed.
The best advice is not to get it where it is not needed.
Summary
Superglue is a very fast-drying adhesive that has numerous uses.
When superglue gets on the skin it can dry and be incredibly difficult to remove.
2016;5(1):72-74.
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British Columbia Drug and Poison Information Centre (BC DPIC).Krazy glue.
