Betadine products are used in hospitals and health care facilities to prevent the spread of bacteria, viruses and other potentially harmful microbes. Available in various preparations for use in surgical preparation, the products contain 5 percent to 10 percent povidone-iodine. While effective at controlling pathogens, Betadine solutions stain bright yellow when left in contact with hair, skin and clothing. Porous surfaces, including hair, can be particularly hard to clean when covered in Betadine for an extended period of time. Clean up with soap and water is sometimes effective, but more aggressive cleaning techniques can be needed for removing Betadine from hair.
Step 1
Identify and separate strands of hair coated in Betadine from unaffected portions of your hair. Use hair bands, clips or combs to secure clean strands of hair away from the Betadine-coated hairs.
Step 2
Brush or comb the Betadine-covered hair, if possible. Dried Betadine forms a somewhat rigid surface. Brushing or combing can remove some of the larger deposits from hair. Brushing also removes tangles and knots, making it easier to clean all portions of the affected hair.
Step 3
Wash the Betadine-covered hair using dish soap and water. Dish soap is harsher on hair than shampoo or body soap.
Step 4
Apply rubbing alcohol to a cotton ball. Squeeze the cotton ball to remove excess alcohol.
Step 5
Rub the cotton ball on areas where Betadine remains after washing using a gentle vertical motion. Don't rub in circles -- this spreads the Betadine around. Scrubbing too harshly can damage hair.
Step 6
Continue cleaning the Betadine with the alcohol-soaked cotton ball. Discard the cotton ball once it becomes dirty and covered in Betadine or displays a strong yellow tinge.
Step 7
Dampen another cotton ball using alcohol and continue cleaning, replacing dirty cotton balls with fresh ones until the Betadine is gone.
Step 8
Rinse the affected hair under warm water until the water runs clear.
Tips and Warnings
- Hydrogen peroxide is also effective at removing Betadine from hair but can lighten hair color. If you have blonde hair, consider using hydrogen peroxide to remove the Betadine and lighten any staining. If alcohol is not effective, speak to your doctor or health care professional regarding other methods of Betadine removal for hair. Most health care professionals have had to contend with this issue at some point and can recommend an alternate method for Betadine removal.
- Some individuals develop an adverse reaction to Betadine, including irritation and sensitivity, particularly if the solution is left in contact with skin for an extended period of time. If you suspect an adverse reaction due to Betadine, seek emergency medical help immediately. Betadine, dish soap and rubbing alcohol are harsh substances that can dry or damage hair. Avoid cleaning Betadine-free hair with dish soap or alcohol. If the hair feels dry or brittle after cleaning, apply a conditioner or oil treatment to restore softness and strength.
Things You'll Need
- Hair ties
- Hair clips
- Hair combs
- Comb
- Brush
- Dish soap
- Cotton balls
- Rubbing alcohol
- Water
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