How to Handle a Splinter

Splinters are objects that become embedded under the skin. Most often these are tiny pieces of wood, although glass, metal, and plastic can be splinters too.

Taking a splinter out as soon as you spot it helps prevent infection and makes removal easier (since the skin won't have time to heal over the splinter).

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of a Splinter?

• a small speck or line under the skin, usually on the hands or feet
• a feeling that something is stuck under the skin
• pain at the location of the splinter
• sometimes redness, swelling, warmth, or pus (signs of infection)

How Do I Remove a Splinter?

To remove a splinter:

• Wash your hands, then the area around the splinter with soap and warm water.
• Sterilize tweezers and a needle by putting the ends of each in boiling water, then wipe them off with a clean cotton ball or alcohol pad.
• If the splinter is sticking through the skin, firmly grip the end with the tweezers. Pull slowly and gently at the same angle the splinter went in so it won't break.
• If the tip of the splinter isn't sticking out, gently scrape the skin away from the splinter with the needle until there's an end to grab with the tweezers.
• After the splinter is removed, wash the area again and cover it with a bandage.

When Should I Call the Doctor About a Splinter?

Call the doctor if:

• The splinter seems to be too deep or won't come out.
• The splinter is under a fingernail or toenail and can't be reached.
• The wound is bleeding a lot.
• The skin around the wound looks infected.
• Your child's vaccines are not up to date.

What Can Help Prevent Splinters?

Make sure kids:

• don't rub their hands on wooden surfaces (picnic tables, outdoor furniture, playground equipment, railings, toys)
• wear shoes on decks, boardwalks, and docks, and when wading in water
• wear slippers or shoes after glass breaks on the floor
• steer clear of bushes and plants with thorns or spikes