Facial paint contamination: A new removal technique by using paraffin oil

Facial paint contamination is a common issue, and traditional removal methods, such as turpentine, can be irritating, particularly in sensitive areas such as the eyes and mucous membranes. There is a pressing need for safer and more effective alternatives for paint removal from the facial skin. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of paraffin oil in removing facial paint stains. A total of 6 patients with facial paint contamination were treated at the emergency center of The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University between March 2021 and October 2023. Paraffin oil was applied to the contaminated areas using sterile cotton balls or gauze, and gentle rubbing was performed until the paint was removed. Patients with concomitant skin lacerations received appropriate treatment, while those with paint in sensitive areas (e.g., eyes, nose) were referred to relevant specialists. Paraffin oil proved to be an effective agent for paint removal, with no allergic reactions or complications observed. The average time required for paint removal ranged from 27.5 to 30 s/cm². The procedure was well-tolerated, and no adverse effects were noted. Using paraffin oil provided a safe, rapid, and nonirritating method for removing facial paint, with minimal sensitization risk.