A splinter is a thin piece of material, such as wood or metal, which becomes embedded below the top layer of the skin. Treatment involves sterilising the area and using tweezers to remove the splinter.

Wash hands with soap and warm water and pat them dry with a clean towel.

Grasp the tip of the splinter with tweezers and gently pull out the splinter. If the splinter is embedded too deep, sterilise a needle by soaking it in rubbing alcohol. Use the needle to remove the skin over the splinter. Lift the end of the splinter out with tweezers and the tip of the needle.

  • A splinter is a thin piece of material, such as wood or metal, which becomes embedded below the top layer of the skin.
  • Lift the end of the splinter out with tweezers and the tip of the needle.

Wash the affected area with soap and warm water and pat it dry with a clean towel. Apply antibiotic ointment daily until the affected area is healed.

TIP

Watch for signs of infection, such as swelling, redness or pus drainage. If they occur, contact a physician.