How to Get Nail Glue Off Your Skin: Effective Methods and Tips
Medically reviewed by Brendan Camp, MD
Direct skin contact with nail glue may cause localized dermatitis (skin inflammation), paronychia (infection of the skin around the nail), and allergic onycholysis (separation of the nail from the nail bed).
As with super glue, nail glue should not be pulled or picked off the skin as this could damage the skin and may be painful. Instead, products such as soapy water, petroleum jelly or oils, or—if necessary—acetone-based nail polish remover may be used.
This article will discuss what you need to remove nail glue from skin, the steps involved, caring for your skin afterward, and ways to prevent nail glue from getting on your skin.
Johner Images / Getty Images
What You Need to Remove Nail Glue From Skin
The tools you need to remove nail glue from skin depends on the method you are using. Materials you may use include:
Warm water
Container for soaking
Soft cloth
Cotton swabs (such as Q-tips) or cotton balls
Petroleum jelly
Moisturizer
Acetone-based nail polish remover
Toothbrush, or similar gentle tool
Steps to Remove Nail Glue From Skin
The measures needed to remove nail glue from skin depend on factors such as how long it has been on the skin, how securely it is bonded to the skin, and how much of it is on the skin.
As some techniques can be harsher on the skin, you may wish to start with milder measures first and move onto stronger methods if needed.
If the glue is still wet, remove excess glue with a clean cloth or tissue without rubbing vigorously or scrubbing. If the glue has dried, don't try to peel or pull it off; try one or more of the following methods.
Warm Soapy Water
This method will likely work if the glue has not yet dried.
Applying a warm compress to the area may help soften the glue.
If the affected area is in a place you can immerse in water, such as your hands, soaking in warm, soapy water may do the trick.
Steps include:
Fill a container with warm (not hot), soapy water.
Soak the affected area for about 10 to 15 minutes.
Once the glue has softened sufficiently, use your fingers, a toothbrush, or similar tool to very gently try removing the glue.
If the glue is still too bonded to be removed without damaging your skin, don't force it. Try soaking again, or use other method.
Petroleum Jelly or Oils
Applying petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, to the area may help loosen the glue by breaking down the bonds of the cyanoacrylates.
Mineral oil or vegetable oil may also be effective at removing cyanoacrylates from the skin.
Apply the petroleum jelly or oil to the area, and gently rub it to try and loosen and remove the glue. Don't force it. If the glue is not coming off, try another method.
This method is a less risky technique to use if the affected area is near the eyes or mouth.
Acetone-Based Nail Polish Remover
Acetone can be an effective way to remove cyanoacrylate-based adhesives from the skin, and the removal of artificial nails often involves soaking in acetone.
Acetone carries the risk of side effects such as skin irritation or lesions. It's best to try this method only if gentler methods are ineffective. It should never be used near the eyes.
Acetone may be particularly useful when the bond from cyanoacrylates needs to be broken more quickly, such as if fingers are stuck together.
To use this method, do the following:
Apply acetone or acetone-based nail polish remover to the area.
Once the bond is broken, rinse the area thoroughly with water to remove all the acetone.
Gently rub off the residue.
Important safety measures to follow if using acetone include:
Never use near eyes.
Always use in a well-ventilated area.
Be aware that acetone is highly flammable.
Let It Be
If it isn't bothering you, and/or other methods haven't worked, it's usually OK to just leave it alone to work itself off. The glue typically sloughs off naturally within a few days.
Just remember not to pick at it while you are waiting.
When Is Nail Glue on Skin an Emergency?
If you get nail glue or another cyanoacrylate-based adhesive on your eyes or lips, see a healthcare provider right away.
Remember:
Do not use acetone, alcohol, or another chemical.
Try not to pull off the glue.
Prevent cutting your eyelashes.
Removing Nail Glue From Skin: What Not to Do
Some attempts to remove nail glue from the skin can cause pain, damage, or infection. If you get nail glue or another cyanoacrylate-based adhesive on your skin, heed the following warnings:
Do not pull it off forcefully or pull apart fingers if stuck together.
Avoid pulling off clothing if it's stuck to the skin.
Avoid scrubbing or rubbing vigorously.
Never use acetone or nail polish remover near the eyes.
Never use sharp objects, such as knives or scissors, to try to remove the glue.
How to Care for Your Skin After Removing Nail Glue
After the glue is removed, rinse the area well with warm water and use a soft towel to pat it dry. Apply moisturizer or aloe vera gel to help soothe and hydrate your skin, and relieve any irritation.
Contact your dermatologist or healthcare provider if you notice signs of:
Redness
Inflammation
Infection
How to Prevent Nail Glue From Getting on Your Skin
It's best to have artificial nails applied by a trained and qualified nail technician who knows proper technique, details about the products, and what precautions to take.
If you are applying nail glue at home, some ways to help prevent nail glue from getting on your skin include:
Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or barrier cream, or adhesive tape, on the skin around your nail before applying the glue.
Don't use too much glue, and apply it precisely and carefully to the surface of the nail.
Make sure the area you are working in is clean and clear of clutter.
Apply the glue in a well-ventilated area.
If you get glue on your skin, wipe it off with a cloth or tissue as soon as possible so that it doesn't dry and harden.
Summary
Nail glue can sometimes be removed with gentle methods, such as soaking in warm, soapy water, or applying grease such as petroleum jelly or vegetable oil, then gently rubbing with fingers or a toothbrush.
If necessary, acetone or acetone-based nail polish remover may be used to break the bond of the nail glue, but it carries the risk of skin irritation, is highly flammable, and must be used in a well-ventilated area. It should never be used near the eyes.
After removing the nail glue, rinse the area well and moisturize.
If possible, have artificial nails applied by a trained nail technician. If doing it yourself, you can help keep nail glue off your skin by applying a barrier such as petroleum jelly on the skin around the nail before applying the glue.
Read the original article on Verywell Health.
