W
e’ve all been there. That heart-sinking moment when you realize that chewing gum has stealthily taken residence in your hair. Perhaps, you had a wild night out and got wasted, only to wake up to a gummy situation. Or you studied too hard and slept harder, only to realize your gum has traveled a bit out of its boundaries. Whatever your story, it’s the kind of situation that can turn a good day into a hair-pulling, frustrating ordeal.
Let’s not forget that the longer the gum lingers in your hair, the more difficult it becomes to remove. It can get entangled with other strands, creating a complicated mess that becomes even harder to tackle. Ignoring it might tempt you to resort to drastic measures like cutting your hair, which can lead to expected bouts of regret. Before you consider the big chop, explore this lineup of ingenious solutions that will not only rescue your precious tresses but also leave you wondering, “Why didn’t I think of that?”
Check out how to remove gum from your hair with unbelievable ease…
- Ice cubes: Using an ice cube directly on the gum will cause it to freeze. Once the gum has dried, delicately remove it with a fine-toothed comb while being gentle. The gum becomes less sticky after it hardens which makes it simpler to remove without harming your hair.
- Vinegar soak technique: Thanks to the acetic acid in vinegar, the vinegar soak technique is a creative way to get gum out of your hair. Spend around 15 minutes soaking the affected area with white vinegar, then make gradual, gentle progress in removing the gum with a comb or your fingertips.
- Peanut butter: You wouldn’t believe it but peanut butter has other uses than being a delicious spread. Because of the oils in peanut butter, the gum becomes softer, less sticky, and simpler to untangle. To avoid any pieces that can be challenging to handle, just ensure you select super creamy peanut butter and liberally apply it over the affected area. Give it some time to perform its magic before using a comb or your fingers to gently expel the gum.
- Toothpaste: Put a bit of toothpaste on the chewing gum and the hair surrounding it. Rub it lightly and then gently remove the intruder with a comb or your fingers. The abrasive nature of toothpaste helps reduce the gum’s stickiness.
- Hot water and soap method: Put the damaged hair in warm, soapy water. As the gum softens and becomes more brittle, gently massage it between your fingers. The soap and warm water solution help soften the gum, making it easier to remove.
- Essential oil solution: Apply a few drops of essential oil to the gum, such as eucalyptus or tea tree oil. Utilizing a comb or your fingers, gently expel the gum. It would dissolve more easily and leave your hair with a pleasant fragrance thanks to the essential oil.
- Vaseline (Petroleum jelly): Vaseline is another household item that can be surprisingly effective in removing gum from your hair. Its thick texture and greasiness can help weaken the bond between the gum and your hair strands, allowing you to gently untangle the intruder. Apply a thin layer of Vaseline to the area and allow it to sit for a while to soften the gum. Then, gently work the gum out using your fingers or a comb.
Safety precautions
When attempting any of the methods to remove gum from your hair, it’s important to take certain safety precautions to ensure your hair and scalp are protected. Here are some factors to note:
- Allergies and sensitivities: Before using any substance, ensure you’re not allergic to it by doing a patch test on a small area of your skin. Some people might be sensitive to certain oils, chemicals, or ingredients, so always exercise caution.
- Avoid harsh pulling: While working to remove the gum, be gentle with your hair to prevent unnecessary breakage or damage. Avoid harsh pulling as this could lead to hair loss, pain, or discomfort.
- Protect your eyes and face: Some methods involve liquids or substances that could accidentally get into your eyes or face. Use caution and consider wearing protective eyewear to prevent irritation.
- Ventilation: If you’re using substances with strong odors like vinegar, make sure you’re in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling the substance.
- Avoid open flames or heat sources: Some methods involve oils, which can be flammable. Avoid open flames or heat sources while applying them to your hair.
- Rinse thoroughly: After using any substance on your hair, make sure to rinse your hair thoroughly to remove any residue.
- Choose the right method: Select a method that you’re comfortable with. If you’re unsure, start with milder methods and escalate, if necessary.
- Use safe products: If you’re using commercial gum removers or other products, follow the instructions provided and ensure they’re safe for use on the hair.
By adhering to these safety precautions, you can tackle the sticky situation of gum in your hair with confidence and minimal risk to your hair and well-being.
Featured image: Diamond Dogs/iStock
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