Whether from a store-bought bandage for a cut or a patch that disperses medicine to the body, removing something that was stuck to the skin with adhesive can leave behind a sticky residue. Removing an adhesive dressing can hurt, especially when the skin is raw. You may be tempted to loosen the bandage by soaking it in a solvent, but researchers at the Women's and Children's Hospital in North Adelaide, Australia, found that dry removal is best. Solvents break down the tape, leaving behind more residue that is even harder to remove.
Step 1
Let the adhesive residue dry for 15 minutes after dry removal of the patch, bandage or tape.
Step 2
Wash away the sticky residue with warm water and a mild soap.
Step 3
Remove any additional residue by rubbing the area with an oil-based lotion or cream such as baby oil.
Step 4
Wipe the area with a medical adhesive removal pad if you still have residue on your skin.
Things You'll Need
- Warm water
- Mild soap
- Oil-based lotion
- Medical adhesive removal pad
