Wondering how possible and easy peaky it can be to remove oil-based paint from skin? You should start by knowing that just a few things are impossible nowadays. You can easily solve your problems yourself provided that you know your way around them. So, for oil-based paint, how can you remove it from the skin?
Oil-based paints are expected to be used cautiously. They are paints that do emit strong fumes and can adhere strongly when they drop on your skin which may be irritating. It is unlikely to get it off using only soap and water because the paints are not water-soluble. However, you can quickly remove them using baby oil /mineral oil, turpentine, or Vicks Vapor Rub.
In this piece, we’ll unveil what oil-based paint is all about when you can use it, and the effective way to get rid of it when it comes in contact with your skin.
What is Oil-Based Paint?
Oil-Based Paint is a paint know for its high durability and strong adherence to surfaces. Its composite includes either natural or synthetic oil as a base. The natural is “linseed” while the synthetic is “alkyd”. The alkyd base is characterized by higher strength and lower price which makes it more common.
Nonetheless, both oil types feature durability and toughness which make oil-based paint a great choice for exterior house painting tasks, interior doors, trim, and kitchen cabinets or bathrooms. Besides, you should expect it to be a bit trickier when you intend to remove it. The kinds of oil-based paints you can come across include varnish, artists oils, and exterior paints & stains for home improvement
When to Use Oil-Based Paints?
Oil-based paints are perfect for trims and moldings because of their extreme durability and ability to keep up with routine contact. Painters see it as a great choice when looking for paint that can resist rust and stains over time primarily because a hard coating that is not breathable is created by the resin of oil-based paint.
Moreover, remember that when oil-based paint is compared to its counterpart (water-based paint), it has a stronger odor, will take some time to dry, and can be more difficult to clean.
Can I Use the Same Method to Clean Oil Paint Brushes Without Paint Thinner as I Would to Remove Oil Based Paint from Skin?
When it comes to cleaning oil paint brushes, using the same method as you would to remove oil-based paint from skin is not recommended. Unlike paint on skin, cleaning oil paint brushes requires a specific approach. Instead of paint thinner, try using a gentle brush cleaner or a combination of mild soap and warm water to effectively clean your brushes.
How to Remove Oil-Based Paint from Skin
The way oil-based paints are designed is to make them stick strongly to the surfaces on which they are placed. And because it may be impossible to get rid of them when they drop on your skin with just water and soap, you may want to check out the following different proven methods to get the job done.
How to remove oil-based paint from the skin with Mineral Oil or baby oil
Mineral oil contains aliphatic and alicyclic hydrocarbons which are derived from petroleum. It is capable of offering relief for several conditions due to its ability to lubricate safely. To Remove oil paints from your skin with mineral oil, take the following steps:
Detailed steps
- Step 1: Wash your hands thoroughly and dry them well.
- Step 2: Get a rag or preferably cotton ball and soak it with mineral oil or baby oil.
- Step 3: Rub in a circular pattern vigorously over the oil-based paint.
- Step 4: Apply more oil and rub again as you see the paint lifting.
- Step 5: Continue rubbing until you see the paint removed completely.
- Step 6: Wash your hands thoroughly and dry them well again.
How to remove oil-based paint from the skin with Turpentine
Turpentine is a complex mixture of monoterpenes. As a paint solvent and thinner, it is extremely effective that can be used in stubborn cases. Note: Try to use turpentine with caution and also in a ventilated area where there are no kids or pets. To Remove oil paints from your skin with turpentine, take the following steps:
Detailed steps
- Step 1: Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
- Step 2: Moisten a clean cloth with a small quantity of turpentine.
- Step 3: Dab (using the cloth) at the paint and remoisturize as necessary until you see the paint removed completely.
- Step 4: Use water and soap to wash your hands thoroughly.
How to Remove oil-based paint from the skin with Vicks Vapor Rub
Vicks Vapor Rub can be your next choice if you’re scared of using turpentine due to its dangerous characteristics. It is a mentholated ointment with several inactive ingredients such as petroleum, cedar leaf oil, thymol, nutmeg oil, and turpentine oil. To Remove oil paints from your skin with Vicks Vapor Rub, take the following steps:
Detailed steps
- Step 1: Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
- Step 2: Apply to the areas of oil-based paint a thin layer of Vapor Rub.
- Step 3: Leave it for about 5 minutes.
- Step 4: Use a cloth to wipe it off.
- Step 5: Wash your hands again and dry them well.
Can oil-based paint harm your skin?
If you leave oil-based paint on your skin for a brief period, it won’t cause any harm to it. Nevertheless, ensure you avoid letting it stay on your skin for a long time. This is because it may cause irritation, particularly when you breathe in its fumes.
How soon should oil-based paint be removed from your skin?
You must remove the paint as soon as possible. This is because it is easier to get rid of it when it is still fresh than when it becomes dry.
Can you remove oil-based paint with lemon essential oil and coconut oil?
You can get oil-based paint off your skin using both lemon essential oil and coconut oil together. Mix both in their appropriate quantities (depending on how much paint you’ve got on your skin) in a bowl. Apply the mixture with your fingers over the affected areas. Massage until you see the paint comes off. Then wash your skin with water and soap.
Final word
By now you should have realized that there is no rocket science when it comes to how to remove oil-based paint from skin. Following the provided steps will help you out immensely. Remember that you follow them as directed and take every precaution to avoid exposing people and pets around to danger.
