Splinters and Foreign Bodies

The odd splinter is an inevitable part of growing up and getting your hands dirty. They needn’t cause any problems beyond the initial discomfort and, if they’re near the surface of the skin, they’re relatively easy to deal with.

The one thing to be careful of, as with all injuries, is the risk of infection, both from the source of the splinter and from your efforts to remove it. As always, wash and disinfect your hands before touching any kind of injury with Savlon Cleansing Wipes with Antiseptic or Savlon Antiseptic Liquid*.

What to do

  • If the splinter is only partly under the skin, you may be able to remove it with a piece of sticky tape. If not, wash under the tap or with Savlon Cleansing Wipes with Antiseptic or Savlon Antiseptic Liquid* and dry the affected area and try removing the splinter with a pair of sterilised tweezers.
  • Pull in a straight line, at the same angle the splinter went in. If you haven't removed the splinter after ten minutes it's best to stop before you damage the affected area.
  • Once you've removed a splinter, clean the wound with Savlon Cleansing Wipes with Antiseptic or Savlon Antiseptic Wound Wash*, treat with Savlon Antiseptic Cream* and cover with a Savlon Fabric Plaster.
  • Other foreign bodies, such as grit in a graze should be removed by gently washing the wound under cold running water or using Savlon Antiseptic Wound Wash*.
  • Don't try removing anything that's become embedded, that should only be done by a medical professional.
  • Most splinters work themselves out in time, but if the area looks red or feels sore, seek medical advice.

Savlon Antiseptic Wound Wash contains chlorhexidine gluconate.

*Always read the label.

Top Tip

If you've got a splinter, try soaking the affected area in warm water to encourage the splinter to move closer to the surface of the skin. You can also prevent splinters by wearing protective gloves when you're doing the garden or DIY jobs around the house.

 

PLEASE NOTE:
The information on this website is provided as a reference guide only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice from your pharmacist, doctor or NHS Direct. Always seek medical advice if you are unsure of the treatment required or dial 999 in an emergency.

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