How to Remove Foam Sealant From My Fingers

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Things You'll Need

  • Acetone or acetone-based fingernail polish remover

  • Foam sealant remover

  • Pumice stone, nail file or fine grit sandpaper

  • Petroleum jelly, mineral oil or heavy hand cream

Foam sealant can be removed from fingers.

While using gloves while doing jobs around the house is always a great idea, sometimes it isn't practical or convenient. Foam sealant is not complicated to use, but it can get messy and sometimes goes where you want in addition to everywhere else. Sometimes your hands are one of those places. Foam sealant can be removed safely and easily, but should be done as quickly as possible, since it is much more difficult to remove hard, cured foam. There are several methods of removing foam sealant from your hands.

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Uncured Foam

Step 1

Use acetone-based fingernail polish remover or straight acetone on moist, uncured foam.

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Step 2

Applying the acetone with a cotton ball or cosmetic round provides some extra texture which may help it work better. You can also use commercial solvent made for removing foam sealant.

Step 3

Wash hands thoroughly and use a hand cream.

Cured Foam

Step 1

Remove cured foam by rubbing your hands with a pumice stone, nail file or fine grit sand paper.

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Step 2

Take off the stubborn foam by applying a thick layer of mineral oil, petroleum jelly or thick lotion to your hands.

Step 3

Put on rubber gloves or plastic wrap and let sit for several minutes so that the moisturizer soaks into the foam and makes it gummy.

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Step 4

Scrape the sticky foam off with a flat edge, butter knife or your fingernail.

Step 5

Wash with lukewarm, soapy water.

Tip

Be sure to wear clothing, a hat and gloves before using foam sealant.

Any foam that cannot be removed will eventually wear off.

Foam sealant that has cured cannot be removed from fabrics, carpets, floors or walls, so check the area after using for any cleanup that needs to be done.

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