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If you’ve ever used hair weaves, extensions, or wigs, you probably understand the importance of using hair glue to attain and maintain your favorite hairstyle. That said, you’re probably also concerned about how to remove glue from your hair.
While hair glue does an excellent job of securing wigs and other hairpieces, it can be challenging to remove it when you’re ready to change your hairstyle.
Hair glue ensures that your “fake hair” looks healthy, realistic, and natural while keeping everything in place for the life of your look, which can be as long as two months.
But removing hair glue doesn’t have to be a crisis. With a bit of patience and confidence, and some good techniques and products, you can remove excess hair glue without damaging your tresses.
- Work in small sections. Go slowly.
- Do not pull, tug, or “snap” glue off hair.
- Condition deeply after removal to help reduce dryness.
Is Hair Bonding Glue Bad for Your Hair?
Yes, glue can cause permanent damage to the hair, either from not removing it at all or by removing it using aggressive methods or harsh products. Hair bonding glue may also cause problems for the scalp because it can burn and block your hair follicles.
Its ingredients are harsh enough to burn and dry out hair, and its fumes can trigger severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, in people with latex or adhesive sensitivities.
How to Remove Glue From Hair
Water alone will not break down latex or acrylic bonds.
Fortunately, there are some tried and true (and safe!) ways to remove hair glue. Some of them are so fortifying that they also nourish and condition the hair and scalp in addition to removing the glue.
It might be necessary to experiment with different removal approaches, depending on the specific hair glue that was used.
Your hair’s original texture, type, and condition can also play a role in which type of removal method will work best for you.
- Identify the adhesive that was used and choose the remover its manufacturer recommends, following the label. A quick dab on skin or a strand does not rule out an allergic reaction.
- Use solvents in a well-ventilated area. Keep them away from heat or flames.
- Stop right away if you feel burning, swelling, or strong irritation. Rinse thoroughly.
- If glue is on the scalp, near the eyes, or covering a large area, consider seeing a professional stylist.
Method #1 – Your Normal Shampoo Routine with a Twist
Best for: Fresh or light residue from latex-based bonding glue.
Good old-fashioned shampoo and conditioner might do the trick, so start with this method. However, this time mix equal parts of both products and apply them to your wet hair generously.
Pay special attention to the sections that have the glue, and massage it well into those areas. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
As you rinse it out, use a wide-toothed comb to remove the loosened glue. If you see that the process is working, repeat as often as necessary until all the glue is removed. As you continue, use a narrow-toothed comb to remove even more glue.
When finished, deep condition your hair to restore the moisture that might have been stripped due to excessive shampooing.
- If you have a history of skin allergies or dermatitis, consider speaking with a dermatologist before using solvents.
- Learn more about patch testing for contact dermatitis from the American Academy of Dermatology: Patch testing can find what’s causing your rash.
- If you develop severe burning, blistering, swelling, or breathing symptoms, rinse immediately and seek urgent medical care.
Method #2 – Professional Adhesive Remover
Best for: Wig bonding glue or adhesive residue that is not lifting with shampoo or oil.
A professional adhesive remover (often citrus-based) is designed to break down hair system and wig adhesives more predictably than DIY mixes.
Apply the remover to the glued sections of hair (follow the product directions), then gently work the adhesive loose with your fingertips. Use a wide-toothed comb to lift softened pieces as they release.
Once the glue is removed, shampoo thoroughly and follow with a deep conditioner or hydrating mask.
- Follow the label directions closely.
- Avoid the eye area. Rinse immediately if product gets into eyes.
Method #3 – Coconut Oil, Vaseline, or other Lubricant
Best for: Latex-based glue and residue, especially if you want a gentler option.
Rub some coconut oil, Vaseline, or another lubricant, such as butter, over the bits of glue, and leave for at least one hour. Comb gently and use your fingers to remove the pieces of glue. Shampoo and condition as normal.
Used too much lubricant? Here is how to get Vaseline out of hair without harsh scrubbing.
What you don’t do can’t hurt you! The best way to avoid the hassles of removing glue from hair is not to use it in the first place.
Many glue-free options are available to change your hairstyle or lengthen your hair. Clip-in, tape-in, or micro-ring extensions, or sew-in weaves or wigs, are just some of the ways you can extend the length of your hair and change your look without having to use glue.
