Attempting to remove any splinter using tweezers or a sharp needle (ouch!) may make the problem worse. The tweezers or needle may push the splinter deeper into the skin or break off the end and leave part of the splinter embedded beneath the skin. Consider the following simple and safer splinter-removing methods…
For an Easy-to-Remove Splinter: When the splinter is sticking out, not deeply embedded, and you don’t want to risk breaking it off by pulling it out, take a piece of tape—you can try transparent tape or adhesive bandages, but a strong tape such as masking or duct tape works best—and put it on the splinter. Based on the direction in which the splinter is facing, remove the tape so that the splinter comes right out with it. You also could try a thin layer of school-type white glue or rubber cement spread on the splintered area. Let the glue sit for 20 minutes, and then carefully peel it away, along with the splinter. If the tape or glue doesn’t work the first time, give it a second try. And if it still doesn’t work, try the alternate method below.
For a Hard-to-Remove Splinter: Take a teaspoon of ground fenugreek (available from most health-food stores), and add just enough water to make a paste. Place it on and around the splinter, and wrap gauze around it. Keep it on for a few hours or overnight. When you clear away the fenugreek, the splinter should have surfaced and you can scrape it or tape it off (see above). Fenugreek is a natural anti-inflammatory.
More tricks for daily annoyances…
