I'm a professional in the field of material science and have extensive experience dealing with various substances, including polyurethane. Polyurethane is a versatile polymer with a wide range of applications, from furniture to automotive parts. It’s known for its durability and resistance to wear, but it can be quite stubborn when it comes to removal from skin.

When it comes to removing polyurethane from your hands, there are several methods that can be used. The method you've mentioned, using mineral spirits, is one such approach. Mineral spirits, also known as white spirits or petroleum spirits, are a common solvent that can dissolve many types of paint and coatings, including polyurethane. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to effectively remove polyurethane from your hands using mineral spirits:


1. Safety First: Before starting, ensure you are in a well-ventilated area. Mineral spirits can be harmful if inhaled in large quantities, and they can also cause skin irritation. It's important to wear gloves and protective eyewear to prevent any accidental contact.


2. Rinse with Mineral Spirits: Begin by pouring a small amount of mineral spirits into a container. Dip your hands into the mineral spirits, ensuring that all areas covered with polyurethane are submerged.


3. Agitation: Rub your hands together vigorously for several minutes to help break down the polyurethane. The friction generated from rubbing your hands together will help to loosen the polyurethane from your skin.


4. Rinsing: After a few minutes of rubbing, rinse your hands thoroughly with clean water to remove the mineral spirits and any dissolved polyurethane.


5. Scrubbing: If there is still some polyurethane residue on your hands, you can use a scrubbing agent like Lava soap. Lava soap is a type of heavy-duty hand cleaner that contains pumice, which is excellent for removing stubborn dirt and grime.


6. Repeat if Necessary: If the polyurethane is not completely removed after the first attempt, you may need to repeat the process. Be patient, as some types of polyurethane can be quite persistent.

7.
Moisturize: After successfully removing the polyurethane, it's essential to moisturize your hands. The use of mineral spirits and scrubbing can dry out your skin, so applying a good quality hand cream or moisturizer can help restore the skin's natural moisture.

It's worth noting that while mineral spirits are effective, they are not the only option. Other solvents such as acetone, which is found in some nail polish removers, can also be used to remove polyurethane. However, acetone can be more drying to the skin, so it's important to take extra care when using it.

In some cases, if the polyurethane has dried and hardened, it may be easier to peel it off rather than dissolve it. This should be done gently to avoid skin irritation.

Lastly, it's always a good idea to test any solvent on a small, inconspicuous area of skin first to ensure that you do not have an adverse reaction.

Remember, the key to removing polyurethane from your hands is patience and persistence. It may take several attempts, but with the right approach and safety precautions, you can effectively remove this stubborn substance.

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Rinse your hands (or whatever skin you've gotten the polyurethane on) in mineral spirits. ... Rub your hands together vigorously for several minutes. Rinse off the mineral spirits. Scrub your hands with Lava soap for several minutes.read more >>