Splinter Removal

Safely removing small embedded objects from the skin

Step by Step

Remove splinters close to the surface with clean fine tipped tweezers, gripping the end that sticks out and pulling at the same angle it went in. A needle, sterilized in a flame and wiped clean, can lift a buried end. Wash the area before and after, and cover with a clean plaster. Leave deeply embedded splinters, splinters under a nail, or those causing severe pain alone: padding can be placed around them, and a clinic can remove them. Seek medical care for splinters from plant thorns in a joint, for glass or metal buried in a wound, and for any redness, swelling, pus, or a red streak tracking up the limb afterwards. Large wooden splinters carrying dirt are tetanus risks, so check vaccination status.