It happens in an instant. A moment of distraction, a slip of the hand, and suddenly a sticky wad of chewing gum is tangled deep in someone’s hair. The initial panic is real, but take a deep breath. Getting gum out of hair is a common problem with surprisingly simple solutions. The most important rule is to resist the urge to pull it out, as this will only make the mess worse by spreading the gum and potentially pulling out hair.
With a little patience and a few common household items, you can tackle this sticky situation without needing a drastic haircut. The key is to harden the gum or break it down with oil, making it much easier to remove.
The Ice Cube Method for Hardening Gum
This classic technique is often the most effective. Grab an ice cube or a sealed bag of frozen peas and hold it directly against the gum. You’ll need to hold it in place for a few minutes until the gum becomes hard and brittle. Once it’s frozen solid, use your fingers to gently crack the gum into smaller pieces. You should then be able to crumble or peel it away from the hair strands with ease. This method works because it changes the gum’s texture from sticky to solid.
Using Oil to Loosen the Grip
If you don’t have ice handy, common cooking oils like olive, coconut, or vegetable oil are fantastic alternatives. The oil works by coating the gum and the hair, reducing the gum’s stickiness. Apply a generous amount of oil directly to the gummed-up area, making sure to saturate it completely. Let it sit for a minute or two to penetrate. Then, using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, gently work the gum out of the hair. The gum should slide out much more easily. Be sure to follow up with a thorough shampooing to remove the oily residue.
What to Avoid When Removing Gum
While it might be tempting to reach for harsh chemicals, it’s best to avoid products like nail polish remover, rubbing alcohol, or peanut butter on hair. These can be very drying to the hair and scalp and may cause irritation or damage. Peanut butter can work due to its oil content, but the peanuts can get stuck and create an even bigger mess. Sticking with plain ice or oil is the safest bet for both hair and skin.
With these gentle methods, a sticky hair situation doesn’t have to end in tears or a trip to the salon. A calm approach and a little household ingenuity are all you need to get back to tangle-free hair.