Buzz
Marker ink stains, whether from your child’s playful doodles or accidental smudges while writing, can be notoriously difficult to remove. Fortunately, there are simple household remedies that can help you quickly and easily eliminate or fade these stubborn marks. Follow the steps below, starting with Step 1, to tackle the issue effectively.
Steps
Use Chemical-Based Products
Apply Isopropyl Alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, is one of the most effective solutions for removing marker ink stains from the skin.
- Soak a cotton ball in isopropyl alcohol, press it onto the ink stain for a few seconds, and then gently wipe. Repeat the process until the stain is gone. Avoid scrubbing to prevent skin irritation.
- Isopropyl alcohol is available at most pharmacies, and it’s recommended to use a product with 90% or higher alcohol concentration for best results.
Use Nail Polish Remover. Nail polish remover containing acetone (which also includes isopropyl alcohol) is a highly effective solvent for removing marker ink stains from the skin.
- Soak a cotton ball in nail polish remover and gently wipe the marker stain on the skin.
- You can hold the cotton ball in place for a moment to allow the nail polish remover to work effectively.
Use Hand Sanitizer. Hand sanitizers containing alcohol can be used to remove marker ink stains from the skin.
- Apply a generous amount of hand sanitizer to the inked area and use a cloth, paper towel, or cotton ball to scrub the stain away.
- You may need to repeat this process several times to completely remove the marker ink.
Use Diluted Bleach. A small amount of diluted bleach can help dissolve ink on the skin's surface.
- Mix standard-strength bathroom bleach with water in a 1:7 ratio. Dip a cotton ball into the solution and apply it to the inked area.
- Bleach can irritate the skin, so avoid using strong solutions. Do not use bleach on the face or other sensitive areas like underarms or the bikini area, and avoid using it on infants or young children.
Use Natural Methods
Scrub with Salt. Scrubbing with salt is an effective natural method for removing marker ink stains from the skin.
- Measure a tablespoon of coarse sea salt and mix it with enough water to form a paste. Gently scrub the paste onto the inked area for a few minutes, then rinse with warm water.
- Sea salt exfoliates the skin, removing the top layer of inked skin. While this method may not completely eliminate the stain, it will significantly fade it.
Use Olive Oil. Fatty substances like olive oil can help remove marker ink stains from the skin without the need for harsh chemicals.
- Apply a generous amount of pure olive oil to the ink stain. Use a paper towel to rub the oil into the skin, and you’ll notice the ink transferring onto the towel.
- Like other natural methods, this won’t completely remove the stain but will significantly fade it. Be sure to wash off any oil residue with soap and water.
Create a Baking Soda and Water Paste. Mix baking soda with water to create an exfoliating paste that helps scrub away ink stains from the skin.
- Combine a teaspoon of baking soda with enough water to form a paste, then gently scrub it onto the skin for 1-2 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
- Alternatively, you can mix baking soda with toothpaste in a 1:1 ratio to create a more effective paste.
Try Using Banana Peels. Some people claim that banana peels can significantly fade marker ink stains on the skin.
- Peel a ripe banana and use the inside of the peel to rub the inked area in circular motions.
- Rub for a few minutes, then wash and dry your hands. Repeat the process with a fresh piece of banana peel.
Soak in a Bathtub. Finally, another gentle method to remove marker ink stains is to soak in a bathtub and let the water fade the stain.
- If desired, you can add a bit of baking soda or a few drops of tea tree oil to the water for added effectiveness. However, soaking in a regular soapy bath is also effective.
- Try to keep the inked area submerged in hot water for as long as possible, and use a loofah or washcloth to scrub the stain away.
Use Lotion and Cream
Try Using Baby Oil. Baby oil is gentle on the skin, making it a suitable choice for removing marker ink stains from infants and young children.
- Apply a small amount of baby oil directly to the inked area and gently rub it with a damp cloth.
- You may need to repeat the process several times to completely remove the stain.
Try Using Sunscreen. Many sunscreens (especially fast-drying formulas) contain alcohol, which can help dissolve marker ink stains.
- Simply apply or spray a small amount of sunscreen onto the inked area, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it off with a towel or washcloth.
- Similar to other methods, you may need to apply and wipe the sunscreen multiple times to fully remove the stain.
Try Using Toothpaste and Mouthwash. Some people have successfully removed marker ink stains by combining toothpaste with mouthwash.
- Squeeze a small amount of toothpaste (any type) directly onto the inked area and rub it into the skin with your fingers. Toothpaste works as an exfoliant, helping to remove the top layer of inked skin.
- Next, pour a small amount of alcohol-based mouthwash onto the skin and use a damp cloth to rub it in. Like other alcohol-based products, mouthwash helps dissolve the ink.
Try Using Shaving Cream. Some people have successfully removed marker ink stains by using shaving cream. Shaving cream contains a mix of oils and soap, which can help lift the ink off the skin.
- Apply a generous amount of shaving cream to the inked area and let it sit for 1-2 minutes. Use a damp cloth to rub the shaving cream into the skin.
- Similarly, you may need to repeat the process several times to completely remove the stain.
Tips
- If the ink stain isn’t completely removed, don’t worry or overdo it, especially if you’re about to take a bath. If the stain is fresh, soaking in a bath can help remove the ink when using a loofah or nail brush to scrub the area (gently, as nail brushes can be harsh). If it doesn’t fully come off, the stain will at least fade significantly.
- Sometimes these methods may not work perfectly. However, there’s no need to stress, as the stain will fade or disappear over time with regular bathing. Alternatively, if the stain is fresh, you can quickly rinse it under running water. While it may not remove the stain entirely, it will significantly lighten it.
Warnings
- Scrubbing too hard can irritate the skin, causing dryness or rashes. Always scrub gently and avoid excessive rubbing.
- Be cautious with open sores or wounds, as they are prone to irritation or infection. Alcohol-based products or mixtures containing salt and bleach can irritate the skin and cause pain if applied to open wounds.
- If there are open wounds or the ink is used for surgical markings, the safest option is to use olive oil or baby oil.
