It’s a right of passage for many beachgoers - stepping onto the sand and discovering your feet covered in sticky, black tar. This nuisance plaguing shoreline visitors can quickly ruin an otherwise idyllic beach day. From removal techniques to avoiding tar altogether, read on for tips and info about this pesky substance to stop it from sticking to your feet.
Where Does Beach Tar Come From?
Tar washing up on sandy shores comes from natural and manmade sources offshore. Much of it originates from the slow seepage of oil and natural tar from small fissures in the seafloor. This forms balls and patties that float to beaches. Runoff from paved surfaces also carries asphalt bits out to sea, where it too lands on the sand. Tar can then rapidly spread across beach areas as temperatures warm and feet track the sticky substance around.
How to Remove Tar From Feet and Skin
Once tar adheres to feet, it can be tricky to remove entirely. Start by scraping off any hardened tar chunks using a plastic card or butter knife. Do not pull tar off skin. Then apply a small amount of baby oil, olive oil, or coconut oil to remaining tar patches. Let it soak for 2-3 minutes maximum. Gently rub the oil and tar residue with a cloth or soft brush. Avoid harsh scrubbing which can further embed tar in skin pores. Repeat if needed. Wash oiled areas with mild soap and water.
For stubborn tar spots, create a sugar scrub by mixing 1 cup sugar with 1⁄4 cup coconut oil. Gently massage onto tar and rinse - the coarse grains will help slough off sticky residue. You can also use WD-40 or Goo Gone applied sparingly followed immediately by soap and water. Never use acetone, gasoline, kerosene, or other harsh chemicals on skin. Seek medical help for severe tar irritation.
How to Remove Tar From Feet and Skin
- Use cooking oil, baby oil or petroleum jelly to soften and lift tar
- Gently scrape off tar chunks with plastic card or dull knife
- Make sugar scrub with 1 cup sugar and 1⁄4 cup oil to gently exfoliate
- Apply WD-40 or Goo Gone sparingly, rinse immediately
- Wash oiled skin with mild soap and water
- Avoid pulling tar off skin or using harsh chemicals
Preventing Tar From Sticking to Your Feet
The best solution for tar toes is avoiding it altogether. Check beach conditions before heading out - tar is more likely to wash up following storms or periods of heavy surf. Call local lifeguard stations for updates. Opt for beaches with designated tar clean-up crews that regularly comb and sift the sand.
Prevent Tar on Your Feet
- Check beach conditions and tar reports before going
- Choose beaches with frequent tar removal
- Wear water shoes, flip flops or sandals when on shore
- Put down beach towel or blanket to avoid direct contact
- Rinse feet before getting in car and going home
- Wash feet with soap and water asap after beach
Wear protective footwear like water shoes, flip flops, or pool sandals when out of the water and on shore. This creates a barrier between feet and sand. Be sure to thoroughly rinse feet before getting into your car or home after a beach visit. The quicker you clean tar, the easier it will be to remove. When possible, set up towels, mats, or blankets to avoid direct contact between feet and sand. Take them up when leaving.
By understanding what causes tar on beach sand and using removal tips and prevention methods, you can stop this pesky problem from ruining beach days. Check conditions in advance, wear protective footwear, and avoid direct contact between feet and sand during your seaside adventures. Use oil, sugar scrubs or solvents to promptly remove any tar post-beach trip. With this knowledge, you can confidently keep tar from sticking to your toes at the shore.