Extracting a Foreign Body

A dermatologic comedone extractor is an excellent tool to aid in the removal of fine foreign bodies, such as cactus needles, small splinters, and insect stingers, that are embedded in the skin.

Place the extractor over the area, with the foreign body centered in the tool's open circle. Make sure the extractor is angled in the direction of the foreign object, and press down as firmly as necessary. The circular compression created around the foreign body will cause it to rise through the extractor's hole.

--- John D. Bayer, DO
Greencastle, Pa