I think what every seems to be saying is to use some sort of oil... Avoid tea tree oil, it is known to cause man boobs.
For many years we've just used Miracle Whip but there are other things one can use. As for the WD-40, I use that on the tools but not the hands.
It is oil base which means oils will break it down a lot like engine grease. I use lard with grease and it comes right off might work the same for pitch.
