How to Rescue Your Hair from Paint, Tar and More

Getting Stubborn Substances Out of Your Hair

Paint, tar, glue and other sticky substances can end up in your hair more easily than you might think. A DIY project, a day at work or simply brushing past something wet can leave you with a matted, stuck-together mess.

The common assumption is that you will need to reach for the scissors. This is rarely true. With careful handling, many common substances can be worked out of hair without cutting. It takes patience, but avoiding an unwanted haircut makes the effort worthwhile for most people.

Removing Paint

The method you use depends on what type of paint is involved. Water-based paints are generally the easiest to deal with. Many modern household emulsions fall into this category, though you should always check the tin to confirm. Start by applying a generous amount of your regular shampoo to the affected area while the paint is still wet if possible. Leave it to sit for around ten minutes, then rinse with warm water. You may need to repeat this several times before the paint loosens fully.

If the paint has dried or this approach does not work, you may be dealing with acrylic or oil-based paint. These might need an oil-based solution to help break them down. Olive oil or baby oil both work well. Warm your hair under warm water first to soften it, then massage the oil thoroughly into the painted section. Work it through strand by strand with your fingers. The paint should begin to break apart gradually.

This process requires patience, so gently continue working the oil through until the paint starts to lift. Once it does, wash your hair with shampoo as normal. You may need two or three washes to remove all the oil residue.

Avoid using white spirit, turpentine or any paint thinner on your hair. These can damage both your hair and scalp, and may cause lasting discolouration.

Removing Tar and Bitumen

Tar is stubborn but not impossible to remove. The most effective method is to dissolve it using a thick, oil-based substance. Smooth peanut butter may work effectively for some people because of its consistency and high oil content. Petroleum jelly is another option worth trying.

Apply a thick layer directly to the tarred section of hair. Work it in thoroughly, covering all affected strands. Leave it for at least fifteen minutes to allow the oil to penetrate and soften the tar. Then use a wide-toothed comb to gently tease the loosened tar away from the hair.

Once most of the tar has been removed, wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo or your regular shampoo. Two washes will usually be needed to clear out the remaining residue. If small traces of tar remain, repeat the oil treatment.

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Other Sticky Substances

Chewing gum can often be removed using the same peanut butter or oil method described above. The oils break down the gum's stickiness, allowing you to slide it off the hair shaft.

Glue varies depending on the type. PVA and other water-based adhesives will often wash out with warm water and shampoo once softened. Superglue and epoxy adhesives are more difficult. Acetone-based nail polish remover can help dissolve superglue, but use it very sparingly and avoid any contact with your scalp, as it can cause irritation and damage hair. Apply it to the affected hair only, work quickly, and wash thoroughly afterwards. Because acetone is drying, follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture. If you are uncertain about using acetone, seek advice from a pharmacist or hairdresser about specialist adhesive removal products designed for hair.

Wax and candle residue can be tackled by placing ice cubes in a plastic bag and holding them against the wax. This hardens it, making it easier to break and crumble away. Any remaining traces can be removed with warm oil.

Tree sap responds well to rubbing alcohol. Hand sanitiser can also work, but only if it contains a high percentage of alcohol. Apply it to the sap, work it through, then wash as normal.

General Tips

Whatever substance you are dealing with, try to act promptly. Fresh spills are almost always easier to remove than dried ones, particularly with substances like paint and tar that harden over time. If you are unsure what has got into your hair, start with the gentlest method first: warm water and shampoo.

Those with sensitive scalps should take extra care when using any oils or solvents, and may wish to consult a professional before attempting removal at home.

After using any solvent or oil-based treatment, consider using a deep conditioning mask to help restore your hair's condition.

If home methods do not work, a professional hairdresser may be able to help. They have access to specialist products and techniques that can tackle stubborn residues without causing damage. Cutting your hair should be a last resort, not a first response.