How to Remove Iodine Stains from Skin

Co-authored by Arvind Madan

Last Updated: July 29, 2024 Fact Checked

Iodine is often used on cuts and scrapes to prevent infection.^{[1]
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DermNet NZ
Online clinical resource website written and run by dermatologists providing evidence-based information about dermatology and skin health

Go to source} Your doctor may also use iodine on your skin during surgery. While iodine can be an effective treatment, it can leave unsightly red or brown stains on your skin. These stains usually fade away on their own after one to two months, but you can get rid of them fast by applying rubbing alcohol to the area. If you have an adverse reaction to iodine, make sure you see your doctor for guidance and treatment.

Part 1

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Applying Rubbing Alcohol

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Get a cotton ball or pad. Look for thin, absorbent cotton balls or pads at your local drugstore.
- Do not use tissue or toilet paper, as it is not absorbent enough. You risk getting iodine stains on your fingers or hands when you try to remove it from your skin.
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Dab the cotton ball or pad in rubbing alcohol. Look for rubbing alcohol that is made with at least 70-90% isopropyl alcohol. Pour ¹⁄₄ teaspoon (1.2 ml) rubbing alcohol onto the cotton ball or pad.^{[2]
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- You can get rubbing alcohol at your local drugstore or online.
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If you are removing iodine stains next to a healing cut or wound, be careful not to rub the pad over this area. Do not scrub at your skin. Simply spread the rubbing alcohol lightly over the area to remove the stains.^{[3]
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Rinse your skin with warm water. Once you have removed the iodine stains, place the area under warm running water to rinse it off.
- Apply the rubbing alcohol as needed to your skin to remove the iodine stains.

Part 2

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Following up with Your Doctor

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Speak to your doctor if the area burns or itches. If you notice your skin feels hot or irritated when you apply the iodine to a cut or scrape, stop using it and go see your doctor. This may be a sign your skin is reacting negatively to the iodine and you need a different course of treatment.^{[4]
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Cleveland Clinic
Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals

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- When you first apply the iodine to a cut or scrape, it may sting slightly as the medicine is absorbed into the wound. The stinging sensation should go away after a minute or two.
If you notice you have a rash or bumps on the area that were not there before you applied the iodine to a cut or scrape, see your doctor right away. This may be a sign that you are having an allergic reaction or other skin issue due to the iodine.^{[5]
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PubMed Central
Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health

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Talk to your doctor if your cut or scrape does not heal within one to two weeks. Iodine is an effective treatment for cuts and scrapes, healing them within seven to ten days. If you do not see any improvements after ten days of applying the iodine, go see your doctor for alternative treatment.
- Iodine is not recommended for the treatment of serious burns, animal bites, or deep puncture wounds. See your doctor for proper treatment if you have any of these issues.