How to Remove Nail Glue From Skin

Soften dried nail glue with warm soapy water, oil, or acetone and lift it off without tearing your skin.

  1. Soak the area in warm, soapy water

    Fill a bowl with warm water and a squirt of dish soap or hand soap, and soak the glued skin for 10 to 15 minutes. Nail glue is a cyanoacrylate, and warm soapy water is the gentlest way to soften its bond.

  2. Gently roll the softened glue off

    Once the edges lift, roll or rub the glue away with your fingertip, a soft washcloth, or a nail buffer. Never rip or peel forcefully — glue bonded to skin will take the top layer with it.

  3. Use acetone on stubborn spots

    Soak a cotton ball in acetone-based nail polish remover and hold it on the glue for a minute or two, then rub gently. Skip acetone if the skin is broken or irritated, and keep it away from your face.

  4. Try oil if your skin is sensitive

    Massage petroleum jelly, coconut oil, or olive oil into the glue for a few minutes to break down the bond without solvents. This is slower than acetone but much kinder to dry or delicate skin.

  5. Wash and moisturize afterward

    Rinse off any remaining remover, then apply a thick moisturizer, since both glue and acetone dry out skin. If glue has bonded your eyelids, lips, or a large area of skin, don't force it — see a doctor or urgent care.