We’ve all been there – that moment of horror when you realize that a piece of gum has somehow found its way into your hair. It’s a sticky situation, but don’t panic! There are several effective methods to remove gum from your hair without having to resort to the scissors. Here are seven tried – and – tested ways.
1. Ice Cubes
- One of the simplest and most accessible methods is using ice cubes. The cold temperature of the ice hardens the gum, making it easier to remove. Take a few ice cubes and hold them against the gum in your hair. You can wrap the ice in a thin cloth to protect your skin from the cold. Keep the ice on the gum for a couple of minutes until it becomes firm. Once the gum is hardened, you can use your fingers or a comb to gently break it away from the hair strands. This method works well for small pieces of gum and is a great first – aid solution when you’re in a bind.
2. Peanut Butter
- Peanut butter isn’t just for sandwiches; it can also be a powerful tool in removing gum from hair. The oils in peanut butter help to break down the gum’s sticky consistency. Take a generous amount of creamy peanut butter and apply it directly to the gum in your hair. Make sure the gum is completely covered. Let the peanut butter sit on the gum for about 5 – 10 minutes. Then, using your fingers or a comb, start to work the peanut butter and gum mixture out of your hair. The gum should start to come off easily. After you’ve removed the gum, wash your hair with shampoo to get rid of the peanut butter residue. This method is especially useful for those who have peanut butter on hand and want a natural alternative to chemical products.
3. Olive Oil
- Olive oil is another household item that can work wonders. Similar to peanut butter, the oil in olive oil helps to dissolve the gum. Pour a small amount of olive oil onto the gum in your hair. You can use a cotton swab or your fingers to spread the oil evenly. Let the oil soak into the gum for a few minutes. Then, gently pull the gum away from the hair. If the gum is still sticky, you can add more oil and repeat the process. Once the gum is removed, wash your hair thoroughly with shampoo to remove the oil. Olive oil is a great option as it is gentle on the hair and leaves it soft and shiny.
4. Vinegar Solution
- A vinegar solution can also be effective in dealing with gum – stuck – in – hair woes. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and warm water in a bowl. Soak a cloth or a cotton ball in the solution and apply it to the gum. The acid in the vinegar helps to break down the gum’s adhesive properties. Let the vinegar solution sit on the gum for a few minutes, and then use a comb to gently pull the gum out of your hair. After removing the gum, rinse your hair with water to get rid of the vinegar smell. This method is safe for most hair types and is a cost – effective solution.
5. Mayonnaise
- Mayonnaise might seem an unlikely hero, but its combination of oils and emulsifiers can help in getting rid of gum. Apply a thick layer of mayonnaise directly onto the gum in your hair. Cover the entire area of the gum and let it sit for about 10 – 15 minutes. The mayonnaise will start to break down the gum’s stickiness. Then, using a comb or your fingers, carefully remove the gum. Wash your hair with shampoo and conditioner to remove the mayonnaise and any remaining gum residue. This method is particularly good for those with long or thick hair where the gum might be deeply embedded.
6. Hand Sanitizer
- Hand sanitizer, which is usually available in most purses or pockets, can be a quick fix. The alcohol content in hand sanitizer can dissolve the gum. Apply a small amount of hand sanitizer to the gum in your hair. Rub it in gently with your fingers. The gum should start to break down within a minute or two. Once the gum is softened, you can use a comb to remove it from your hair. However, be careful as the alcohol in the hand sanitizer can be drying to the hair, so it’s a good idea to follow up with a conditioner. This method is handy when you’re out and about and need a fast solution.
7. Baking Soda and Oil Paste
- Create a paste by mixing baking soda and a small amount of oil, such as coconut oil or vegetable oil. The baking soda acts as an abrasive to help break up the gum, while the oil lubricates the hair and further helps in loosening the gum. Apply the paste to the gum in your hair and gently massage it in. Let the paste sit for a few minutes. Then, use a comb to work the gum out of your hair. Wash your hair thoroughly to remove the paste. This method is effective for stubborn gum and also helps to exfoliate the scalp gently.
In conclusion, getting gum out of your hair without scissors is possible with these simple and easy – to – follow methods. Whether you’re at home or on the go, you can choose the solution that best suits your situation and hair type. Remember to be gentle when removing the gum to avoid pulling or breaking your hair. With a little patience and the right approach, you can free your hair from that unwanted sticky mess.
