Using Household Super Glue on Minor Cuts, Nicks and Scrapes

by Judy Larson
A few good thoughts today from our good friend, Judy Larson.

Our hands are essential to our jewelry making. I know I do not take care of mine as well as I should so even though I use lots of moisturizing lotion, treatment gloves at night, etc., the skin on the tips of my pointer fingers and thumbs cracks during the winter because it is so dry.

Also, working with fabric, paper or wood is extremely drying on my hands out as well. It then becomes painful and difficult to work on any project that requires fine hand work. And don't get me started on all the nicks, scrapes and cuts that happen in the studio.
Instructions
In 1942, Dr. Harry Coover of Kodak Laboratories developed the forerunner of super glue, known as cyanoacrylates.

He first demonstrated its bonding strength in 1959 on the show I've Got A Secret.

During the Vietnam War, field medics used super glue in combat to stop bleeding and close some wounds.

Over the years, I've found it useful for treating small skin cracks or cuts.

First, I smooth the area with a nail file to reduce the crack.

Then I disinfect it, and apply a drop of super glue.

It may sting briefly, but it seals the area effectively.

I repeat the filing and gluing process for a few days until the crack disappears.

This method speeds up healing compared to the 7-10 days it used to take.
Judy Larson's Using Household Super Glue on Minor Cuts, Nicks and Scrapes - , Tools For Wire Jewelry, Tools, , safety, Cracked skin from wire working
Judy Larson's Using Household Super Glue on Minor Cuts, Nicks and Scrapes - , Tools For Wire Jewelry, Tools, , safety, I repeat the filing and gluing process
Disclaimer: The Mayo Clinic says that household super glue has been used to seal small cuts. But if you are injured, you should always seek medical attention first.

An antibacterial alternative to household super glue is Dermabond, which is available only by prescription.

If you frequently get nicks and scrapes from jewelry work, it may be worth visiting your doctor to ask about it.

Another option is New Skin Liquid Bandage, available over-the-counter at most drugstores and grocery stores.

It forms a tough, breathable, waterproof cover over hard-to-protect areas.

Like super glue, it stings a little when applied, but you don't need a prescription.
Judy Larson's Using Household Super Glue on Minor Cuts, Nicks and Scrapes - , Tools For Wire Jewelry, Tools, , safety, Newskin
I'm sure we've all experienced a few nicks or cuts when creating our jewelry.

Below is an option for any jewelry maker to help protect those fingers plus give you more grip while your working.
Finger Pro offers excellent protection against cuts, burns, and abrasions.

It's thin and tough, making it easier to handle small items compared to traditional cots or gloves.

This unique tape sticks only to itself, not your skin.

It breathes, improves your grip, and is easy to remove when you're done.

Each use costs just pennies.

Available in 3/4" and 1" sizes.
Judy Larson's Using Household Super Glue on Minor Cuts, Nicks and Scrapes - , Tools For Wire Jewelry, Tools, , safety, Finger tape

Materials

Wire
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Super New Glue
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Finger Pro Tape - 1
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Finger Pro Tape - 3/4
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  • Category: Tools
  • Technique(s): Tools, General Education, Safety