How to Remove Petroleum Jelly from Hair: Effective Methods with Household Ingredients

Dealing with petroleum jelly on your hair can be a frustrating experience. However, there are tried-and-true methods for removing it using household items that you can find right in your kitchen or medicine cabinet. In this guide, we will explore two effective methods for safely and effectively removing petroleum jelly from your hair.

Method 1: Using Cornstarch and Clarifying Shampoo

If you find yourself with petroleum jelly on your hair, cornstarch (or baking soda or cornmeal) and a clarifying shampoo can help remove it. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Blot with Paper Towels

Blot, do not rub! Press paper towels onto the greasy areas of your hair to absorb as much of the petroleum jelly as possible. Dab gently and avoid rubbing, which could work the jelly deeper into your hair. If you need assistance reaching the back of your head, ask a friend to help.

Step 2: Apply Absorbent Powder

Coat and Pat Gently: Sprinkle cornstarch, baking soda, or cornmeal powder over the greasy area and use paper towels or your fingers to gently pat the powder into the hair, ensuring it covers the entire greasy area. Avoid baby powder or crushed talc, as they can cause respiratory problems if inhaled.

Step 3: Rinse with Warm Water and Clarifying Shampoo

Wash your hair with warm water and a clarifying shampoo. These shampoos are designed to strip hair and styling products, making them effective for removing petroleum jelly. Avoid using cold water, as it can cause the petroleum jelly to clump and become more difficult to remove.

Step 4: Repeat the Shampooing Process

Shampoo and rinse your hair a second time to ensure that all the absorbed powder is removed. Use warm water to rinse until the water runs clear, not cloudy or soapy.

Step 5: Apply a Conditioner

Use a moisturizing conditioner to counteract the drying effects of the clarifying shampoo. Follow the product instructions—some may direct you to massage the conditioner into your hair for a few minutes, then leave it in for a few more minutes before rinsing. Rinse the conditioner using cool water to seal the hair cuticle.

Step 6: Dry and Detangle Your Hair

Blot your hair dry with towels, pressing them against your wet hair to absorb as much moisture as possible. Avoid rubbing or pulling on your hair. Detangle your hair gently with a comb to ensure no petroleum jelly is left behind.

Step 7: Follow-Up if Necessary

If your hair still feels greasy, repeat the process in 12 to 24 hours. Apply more cornstarch, wash with clarifying shampoo, and rinse and condition your hair thoroughly.

Method 2: Using Household Oils and Products

For a different approach, you can also use oils and household products to remove petroleum jelly:

Step 1: Use Oil for 10 Minutes

Massage and Shampoo: Get a gentle oil from your pantry, such as coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, baby oil, or almond oil. Warm the oil in the microwave if necessary (15-20 seconds), then massage 2 tablespoons (30 ml) into the greasy parts of your hair. Wash your hair a few times with a clarifying shampoo. The oil helps work the petroleum jelly out of your hair, making the shampoo more effective.

Step 2: Use a Skin-Safe Grease Remover

Apply and Rinse: Use a skin-safe grease or adhesive remover like Goo Gone. Squirt 1 teaspoon (4.9 ml) into your hand and rub it through the greasy area. Rinse off the remover with warm water until the water runs clear. Ensure that any product doesn't get into your eyes, nose, or ears.

Step 3: Use Liquid Dish Soap

Clean and Condition: Squirt a few spoonfuls of liquid dish soap into your hands and rub it through the greasy hair. Rinse the soap out with warm water until the water runs clear and there are no bubbles left. Consider using a conditioner after using the dish soap, as it can strip your hair of its natural oils. Be cautious not to get any detergent in your eyes, and use a detachable shower head if available to minimize eye contact.