So you’ve got gum stuck in your hair.
And you’re panicking because someone told you the only way out is scissors.
I get it.
I’ve been there.
My mate’s kid got bubble gum tangled in her fringe last month.
Proper disaster.
But here’s the thing – you don’t need to cut your hair.
There are loads of ways to get gum out that actually work.
Why cutting your hair isn’t the answer
Look, I’ll be straight with you.
Cutting seems like the quick fix.
But it’s not.
You’ll end up with wonky hair that takes months to grow back.
And for what?
When you can sort this mess in 10 minutes with stuff you’ve got lying around the house.
The ice cube method (my go-to)
This one’s proper simple.
What you need:
- Ice cubes
- A plastic bag
- Patience (just a bit)
Here’s how:
Stick the ice cubes in a plastic bag.
Hold it against the gum for 15-20 minutes.
The gum will go rock hard.
Then you can literally pick it out bit by bit.
Works every single time.
I used this on my daughter when she fell asleep with gum in her mouth.
Total nightmare.
But 20 minutes later, sorted.
Peanut butter technique (sounds mad, but works)
Yeah, I know.
Putting peanut butter in your hair sounds mental.
But the oils break down the gum.
Step by step:
- Get smooth peanut butter (not crunchy, obviously)
- Slather it on the gum
- Work it in with your fingers
- Wait 5 minutes
- Comb it out gently
The gum just slides out.
Then you wash your hair like normal.
Job done.
Oil-based solutions that actually work
Any oil will do this job.
Try these:
- Olive oil
- Coconut oil
- Baby oil
- Even cooking oil
Massage it into the gum.
Let it sit for 10 minutes.
Then comb through with a wide-tooth comb.
The gum loses its stick and comes right out.
The mayonnaise hack
This one’s proper weird.
But it works because mayo is basically oil and eggs.
Coat the gum in mayo.
Leave it for 15 minutes.
Then comb it out.
Your hair might smell a bit funky after.
But that’s what shampoo’s for.
White vinegar method
Vinegar breaks down the gum’s stickiness.
Heat up some white vinegar (not boiling, just warm).
Soak the gummy bit for 10 minutes.
Then gently pull the gum out.
It should come away clean.
What not to do (seriously, don’t)
Never try these:
- Hot water (makes it worse)
- Pulling hard (you’ll damage your hair)
- Chemical solvents (too harsh)
- Freezing sprays (can burn your scalp)
These methods either don’t work or mess up your hair even more.
Prevention tips (because nobody wants this twice)
Keep gum away from beds.
Don’t chew gum when you’re tired.
Tie long hair back when chewing.
Basic stuff, but it saves hassles.
When to get professional help
Sometimes the gum’s properly stuck.
Like, tangled through multiple layers.
If you’ve tried three methods and it’s not shifting, go to a hairdresser.
They’ve got special products and know what they’re doing.
Better to pay £20 than wreck your hair trying to be a hero.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to remove gum from hair?
Most methods take 10-20 minutes. The ice method might take a bit longer, but it’s the most reliable.
Can I use these methods on children’s hair?
Yes, but stick to gentler options like ice or oil. Avoid anything that might irritate their scalp.
Will these methods damage my hair?
Not if you do them properly. The oils actually condition your hair. Just wash thoroughly afterwards.
What if the gum is really deep in my hair?
Try the peanut butter method first. If that doesn’t work, see a professional hairdresser.
Can I prevent gum from sticking to hair?
Keep hair tied back when chewing gum, and never go to bed with gum in your mouth.
Look, getting gum stuck in your hair is proper annoying.
But it’s not the end of the world.
Try one of these methods.
Take your time.
Don’t panic.
And you’ll have normal hair again in no time.
The bottom line: you absolutely can remove chewing gum from hair without cutting it.
Just pick your method and get stuck in.
