Epoxies are very popular for many projects around the home. If you use these adhesives, you should know how to get epoxy off skin – just in case. Follow our simple directions to remove epoxy from your skin and hands if the need should arise.
No matter how careful you are, sometimes accidents happen. If you get epoxy resin or paint on your skin, it’s certainly a nuisance. But don’t worry, it can be removed. If left in contact with the skin, epoxy can cause irritation as it cures. Some have even experienced allergic reactions, so it’s best to remove the epoxy from your skin quickly.
Always start with the gentlest method of cleaning epoxies off skin and move on to more aggressive products only if necessary.
Try this method first:
- Simply wipe away the wet epoxy with a cloth or paper towel, then wash with soap and water. Liquid soap or citrus-based hand cleaner may work the best.
- If any residue is left, try dabbing some vinegar on the area and wash again with soap.
In more stubborn cases, it will be necessary to soften up the epoxy to make removal easier.
- Soak a cotton ball in vinegar, apply it to the area for several minutes, then try scraping away the epoxy with a fingernail or a washcloth.
- Alternatively, put a generous amount of citrus hand cleaner on the spot, allow it to soften the epoxy for several minutes, then scrub with a wet washcloth.
- Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) is also effective. Use a cloth or a commercial moist towelette and apply some of the alcohol. Use it to scrub the area.
- If all else fails, try using acetone (nail polish remover) to soften it up before removing it. Try to minimize contact with the skin.
In each case, follow up with soap and water to wash away any tiny particles of the epoxy.
Remove epoxy paint from skin using the methods outlined above. Try the different techniques listed and you will likely find one that works very well.
Although harsher chemicals like paint thinner (mineral spirits) or commercial cleaning solvents would work to remove the epoxy, these pose health risks and should not be applied to the skin.
Now that you know how to remove epoxy from skin, you can dive into your next project with no worries! Epoxy is the perfect solution to many types of repairs because of its strong bond and ability to fill wide gaps.
If you’re looking for the best epoxy available, try Loctite Epoxy Gel. This two-part adhesive comes in a dual syringe, so it’s easy to dispense in equal portions. It bonds to metal, glass, ceramic, tile, and many more materials. It sets in just six minutes and can be sanded and drilled when fully cured. It won’t shrink and can even be used outdoors on concrete and stone.
For small projects, you may need an even faster setting time. Try Loctite Epoxy Instant Mix 1 Minute. This two-part liquid epoxy has most of the same characteristics as the epoxy gel, but it starts to set in just 40–60 seconds. That means you can complete small repairs in no time.