Most DIYers have gotten super glue on their hands at some point. Find out how to avoid this pesky problem and how to get super glue off fingers safely.
It can happen to anyone. If you use super glue, there’s always a slight chance that you’ll get some on your fingers or skin. It’s best to wear gloves when working with super glue, but even then, it can still happen. So how do you get super glue off fingers or skin elsewhere?
The first thing we’ll mention is what not to do. It might be tempting to just start pulling your fingers apart. But if the bond is strong, there’s a possibility that you’ll tear or injure your skin. Follow our directions below to soften the glue and then gently pry your fingers apart safely.
If your fingers are bonded together with super glue, don’t panic. You can get them apart safely by following these steps:
- If the glue hasn’t dried or is freshly bonded, immediately soak the affected area in warm, soapy water. This should loosen the glue nicely.
- Using a dull object such as a spoon, the back edge of a butter knife, or even the edge of a bar of soap, gradually pry the fingers apart. Don’t rush, be gentle. Keep soaking the fingers in the soapy water as you work your way along.
- If the super glue is firmly bonded and doesn’t seem to soften with the soap and water, try applying some nail polish remover (acetone) and allow it to soak for a few minutes.
- Then, try step #2 again, gently prying apart.
- Once the fingers are separated, wash the area with soap and water.
Read on for some further suggestions on how to avoid this situation altogether.
If all else fails, or if you want a short-cut, try Loctite Glue Remover. This easy-to-use glue dissolver quickly and safely separates glued fingers. It also gets glue off badly bonded items and fabric. The gel consistency and precision dispenser on the glue bottle makes it super easy to work with.
Of course, it’s best not to get glue on skin or other places it shouldn’t be in the first place. Always use nitrile or latex gloves when working with super glue, especially if you’re bonding small parts.
Try Loctite Super Glue Power Flex Control Gel. This unique gel formula is rubber infused and forms powerful bonds that hold up to vibration and flexing. It’s weather and shock-resistant and comes in an easy-grip squeeze bottle with a precision tip to put the glue just where you want it.