You Should Think Twice Before Trying One Popular Gorilla Glue Removal Hack

The Gorilla Glue family of products includes strong adhesives that help you repair and bond things, from fixing picture frames to working on craft projects. Unfortunately, like all glues, it might inevitably end up on your or a family member's hands, especially if you ignore one crucial warning when working with Gorilla Glue, which is to always wear gloves. If you need to remove Gorilla Glue from your skin, avoid one popular glue removal hack: using acetone or nail polish remover containing acetone. Relying on acetone to remove a Gorilla Glue product is not only strongly discouraged by the brand, but its use can lead to dry, red, and irritated skin.

Acetone is a common chemical solvent used to remove paint and nail polish that can dissolve certain plastics. Officially classified as a flammable, hazardous material, it requires careful handling to avoid skin absorption. According to a public health statement from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), researchers observed damaged skin cells under a microscope after lab participants had only 30 minutes of exposure to acetone on their skin. Therefore, instead of reaching for acetone to tackle that Gorilla Glue patch on your hands, fingers, or anywhere else, try this safer method.

Once you notice the glue on your skin, try removing it with a paper towel or cloth first; it should come off easily if still wet (tacky). If it's dry, however, you'll need to use something a little tougher to remove it. Lathering with a gritty textured soap and water should do the trick to remove dried Gorilla Glue from skin, though you can also use an exfoliator if you have one on hand. Both of these options use a mild abrasive to break down and slough off dead skin cells – or, in this case, glue. Whichever method you choose for glue removal, use gentle pressure so you don't damage your sensitive skin. Once the adhesive is gone, carefully pat dry the area with a soft towel or cloth and then treat with lotion to moisturize the surface. 

Dried Gorilla Glue can cause an allergic skin reaction or irritation, especially for sensitive individuals. The cured glue may also temporarily stain the skin, and if so, you should use lotion to add moisture until the glue wears off completely. Gorilla Glue maintains a consumer safety hotline at 1-800-420-7186 and advises seeking medical attention in the event that you bond your skin or hands together.