Ever wanted to learn how to remove a splinter without pain? Splinter removal is easiest immediately after or a day after it gets in. Redness around the splinter can make it hurt more, so if it doesn't come out easily consider soaking or putting antibiotic ointment on for a while. The body will have a chance to make fluid and infection fighting white cells which can make it easier to remove the next day.

First, let your child see and experience Buzzy at home. Click here if you don't know what Buzzy™ is. Kids trust Buzzy more when they've experienced how it numbs the skin, so let them see and activate Buzzy before taking out the splinter.

Positioning is everything in how to remove a splinter without pain! Make sure your child is in a comfortable spot with good lighting. Let the child play with Buzzy, and when you're ready, place Buzzy a few centimeters away from the splinter.

If it's a finger splinter, put Buzzy in the palm with the vibrating end toward the splinter. For a toe or foot splinter, have your child lay on their tummy, and put Buzzy on the foot. Turn it on, and after 10 seconds or so, try to remove the splinter.

Let your child have as many choices as possible: Let them choose whether they press the switch or you do and whether to watch. Buzzy reduces sharp pain, but light touch sensations are transmitted on different nerves. If your child is scared and focuses intently on the splinter, they will be able to feel the touching sensation of the needle, and may translate this as distress and fear even though the sharp pain is controlled.

If they have a doll or animal, consider taping or placing a toothpick, and let them concentrate on taking it out while you do. You can use any of the distractions listed on this Pain Distraction page (blow out a puff of air, add numbers, do a task.)

For a HUGE splinter, gently splitting the skin on top of the wood or material can make it easier to remove. After you're done, put antibiotic ointment on with or without a band-aid. If some parts of the splinter are left, soaking in soapy water or just waiting should do the trick, but if the area gets more red or has drainage, go see your doctor.

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