How To Get Fountain Pen Ink Off Skin: Safe & Easy Methods

Writing with a fountain pen can be one of the most satisfying ways to get your thoughts onto paper. But even the most seasoned pro knows that fountain pen ink stains are part of the trade-off for enjoying the hobby. Call it collateral damage, but inky fingertips are an everyday occurrence for those who prefer a nib over a ballpoint.

And, let’s face it, there are so many ways ink can splatter, splash, and stain! From refill mishaps to placing your fingers too close to the nib – don’t even get us started on our left-handed friends out there! – inky skin is just a part of life for stylophiles like us.

How to Avoid Ink stains

While stains may be an inevitable part of using a fountain pen, there are a few precautions you can take to minimize your chances of inky fingers.

First, consider using blotting paper to quickly absorb any excess ink, especially after writing or refilling your pen. Wearing gloves during the refill process can also protect your hands from messy ink spills. Additionally, be mindful of where you hold the pen—gripping too close to the nib increases your chances of getting ink on your fingers. For left-handed writers, angling your hand to avoid smearing ink is another key practice that can keep your skin cleaner.

A rocker blotter is a useful tool for writers who sometimes get ink on their hands while writing. Also, it's helpful to blot the excess ink so you can turn the page and continue writing without having to wait for the ink to air dry. Simply replace the blotter paper strip once it is fully used.

Inky hands are a small price to pay for the joy of writing with a fountain pen, but luckily, with the below cleaning methods, you can keep those stains under control!

How to Clean Fountain Pen Ink from Your Hands

Soap and Hot Water

Some may think this is a no-brainer, but soap and water remain among the best methods to get ink off your hands. For this one, it’s all about timing – you’ll want to wash your hands as soon as you notice the stain to avoid it setting in. Simply wash your hands under warm water and continue rubbing the inky areas until the ink has dissolved off the skin. Dish soap is especially effective at this. If your fingertips are especially inky, put your fingers together so that all the tips are touching and grind them into the alternate hand’s palm. This bit of additional abrasion can help remove ink around the nails more effectively.

Rubbing Alcohol

For set-in ink stains, you may have to break out the rubbing alcohol. Soak a cotton ball in a bit of alcohol (even vodka can do in a pinch!) and place it over the stained area. Let it sit for a couple of seconds, then begin rubbing gently in a circular motion. This can break down some of the pigments in the ink. I’d follow this up with the soap and water method above to avoid skin irritation if your hands are sensitive.

Olive Oil and Sugar

If you want to remove ink and maybe give your hands a bit of a spa day, this olive oil and sugar method can pull a double whammy. In the palm of your cupped hand, pour a bit of oil in the middle and add about a teaspoon of sugar. Rub your hands together like you are washing them. Repeat if needed, adding more sugar if it’s too oily; alternatively, more oil if you find it too abrasive. The oil helps to break down the binding and pigment agents in the ink while the sugar exfoliates the skin, helping to remove the layer of skin that’s stained. Wash your hands like normal when done.

Lemon Juice and Salt

Similar to the above method, lemon juice, and salt can be an effective way to remove ink on your fingers. In the palm of your cupped hand, this time you’re going to add about a half teaspoon of salt. To that, squeeze half a lemon. Again, simply rub your hands together like you’re washing them. This method will be a little more abrasive due to the lack of lubrication from the lemon, but the acidity of the juice is an effective way to break down the ink while the salt helps to exfoliate your skin, just like the sugar does above.

Dedicated Ink Stain Removers

There are some great stain removers on the market if a home remedy doesn’t seem to cut it for you. Amodex is a particularly good one. It’s non-toxic and safe on the skin, making it a great option for those who are sensitive to chemicals. To remove ink from your skin using Amodex, start by applying a few drops directly to the stained area or a washcloth. Amodex’s official website notes that it’s best to apply the remover directly on dry skin, so don’t wet it beforehand! Next, rub the area with the Amodex, working it into the skin as thoroughly as you can. You’ll start to notice the ink lifting off the skin, but you may have to repeat the process a couple times, washing your hands between applications.

Owning fountain pens comes with the unique challenge of ink stains – but don’t let that dampen your experience! In fact, these stains are often seen as a badge of honor among seasoned fountain pen enthusiasts, a sign that you’ve truly embraced the art of writing with a nib. With a few easy cleaning techniques at your disposal, like the tried-and-true soap and water method or more specialized products such as Amodex, you can keep your hands free from stains and focus on what really matters: the joy of writing. By making these simple methods part of your routine, you'll realize that ink stains are just a small bump in the road to enjoying your fountain pen for years to come.

Inky Fingers FAQ

Can fountain pen ink permanently stain skin?

Fountain pen ink is typically water-based and should not permanently stain skin. However, the longer the ink sits on your skin, the more difficult it may be to remove. Acting quickly with one of the methods mentioned can prevent long-lasting stains.

Is it safe to use rubbing alcohol or other chemicals on skin?

Yes, rubbing alcohol is generally safe for removing ink from skin, but you should avoid using it if you have sensitive skin. Follow it up with soap and water to reduce the risk of irritation. If your skin feels dry afterward, apply moisturizer.

Why does ink get on my fingers when using a fountain pen?

Ink can get on your fingers due to a variety of reasons such as handling the nib too closely, refilling mishaps, or ink leaks from the pen. Using blotting paper and cleaning the nib regularly can help reduce these occurrences.

What should I do if the ink doesn’t come off after multiple attempts?

If ink stains persist, try using a stronger solution like a dedicated ink stain remover, such as Amodex. You may also need to repeat the removal process several times, as set-in stains can be more stubborn.

Can these methods be used to remove ink from other surfaces, like clothing?

Some methods, like rubbing alcohol and Amodex, can be used on fabrics, but always test a small, inconspicuous area first. Folex works wonders to get stains out of fabric, carpet, and upholstery. Avoid using abrasive methods like sugar or salt scrubs on delicate fabrics to prevent damage.

About the Author

Brett F. Braley-Palko works in the pen industry by day and is a novelist, consultant, and freelance writer by night. You can find his work in a variety of publications, like British GQ and Robb Report. Follow him on Instagram at @brettfbraley or visit his website at brettfbraley.com

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