How to Get Superglue Off the Skin

Superglue is a very strong adhesive that creates a quick bond in seconds. If the glue accidentally gets on the skin it will dry and harden on the skin. Superglue is not totally impenetrable, and there are several ways to remove it from skin at home.

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.

What Removes Superglue From the Skin?

Superglue is a strong liquid adhesive that hardens when it is in the presence of a weak base, like water, alcohol, or blood. 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.

Warm, Soapy Water

The first step to try to remove superglue is to wash the affected area with warm, soapy water. It may take several washings to soften the glue. This method tends to be most effective when the superglue has not completely hardened.

When the superglue has been softened then slowly and carefully peel the glue off of the skin, like removing a bandage from the skin.

Nail Polish Remover With Acetone

When superglue cannot be removed with warm water and soap, try the next best remover, which is acetone. 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. This includes vegetable oil, petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline), and mineral oil. Apply a small amount of the oil to the skin and work it into the superglue.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is a natural alternative to removing superglue from the skin. Use one part lemon juice to one part water and apply that to the affected area. Gently rub the area with the lemon juice mixture and peel the glue 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.

Peel Apart Stuck Skin

When there is a small amount of superglue stuck to the skin, it might be possible to peel it off of the skin. 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.

Use a Pumice Stone

Another option to remove superglue from the skin is to combine warm water and a pumice stone. Pass the pumice stone over the superglue to remove it.

If a pumice stone is not readily available, an emery board (nail file) can also be used.

Steps for Removing Super Glue From Your Skin

Steps to properly remove superglue from the skin include:

1. Remove any clothing on or near where the superglue.
2. Soak the area with warm, soapy water to soften the superglue.
3. Apply acetone over the superglue and rub it in to dissolve the glue.
4. Slowly peel any remaining superglue off of the skin.
5. Wash the area with soap and water.

What Is a Superglue Burn?

A potential side effect of getting superglue on the skin is superglue burn. Superglue is not hot, but it can cause a serious chemical reaction when it comes in contact with cotton fabric. The reaction can cause dermatitis (swelling and irritation) and itching. It can also cause a fast, hot skin reaction that causes a burn injury.

Superglue Safety

Superglue is a fast-drying liquid that bonds various items together. The toxicity is considered to be low but still can cause skin, eye, and mouth irritation.

What to Avoid

Superglue is a cyanoacrylate, which is a type of resin that hardens quickly to almost any surface. It can cause serious issues when not used properly. Do not get superglue on the skin, eyelids, or mouth. Superglue hardens when it is exposed to moisture, the moisture from the skin is enough to harden the glue.

Do not try 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 cause contact dermatitis that 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.

— WILLIAM TRUSWELL, M.D., MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD

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. If you get superglue on your skin, wash the area with warm water and soap before applying apply acetone to the area to dissolve the glue. If the glue cannot be removed or it gets in or near your eye or mouth, contact a healthcare provider.