🩺 Affordable Private Healthcare

Remove Splinters

Price
From £250

Appointment

30 minutes

Professional

Doctor

Doctor doing wound dressing after splinter removal
4.9
Rated 4.9 out of 5
4.7
Rated 4.7 out of 5
Care Quality Commission
Primary Care & Diagnostics Finalist Award

at a glance

pound iconPrice: From £250

Appointment:

Professional: Doctor

4.9
Rated 4.9 out of 5
4.7
Rated 4.7 out of 5
Care Quality Commission
Primary Care & Diagnostics Finalist Award

Splinter Removal & Treatment

Splinters can be a nuisance, uncomfortable, and painful, and they can also cause infections. Removing them properly is crucial to prevent infection and ensure healing.

If you have a splinter that you are struggling to remove, our experienced team is here to help with effective splinter removal techniques for a quick and successful recovery. Our City Walk-In Clinics have been positively impacting the lives of Londoners since 1998.

Doctor considering blood test options

Splinter Extraction

We can remove most splinters, including those that are deeply embedded or located under a finger or toenail. These splinters are usually full of germs and may cause an infection.

Depending on the splinter’s location and depth, we use specialised tools and techniques to safely extract it. This may include sterile tweezers for splinters that are visible and protruding, needles to gently lift splinters embedded below the surface, or surgical instruments for more complicated cases or splinters that are deeply lodged.

After removal, we clean and disinfect the area to prevent infection, and we may apply an antiseptic and, if necessary, a sterile bandage to protect the wound.

When To Seek Medical Help

You should consult a doctor if the splinter is deep or has broken during attempts to remove it, or if you notice signs of infection such as red or hardened skin or discharge that is white or yellow.

Additionally, seek medical help if the splinter has entered the skin near the eye or under the fingernail, if you have tried removing it unsuccessfully, or if the splinter has entered the skin vertically.

Woman doctor smiling
Serious doctor with arms crossed

Common Splinter Types

  • Metal Splinters: Metal fragments can be sharp and cause significant irritation.
  • Plastic Splinters: Plastic splinters are less common but can still cause irritation.
  • Glass Splinters: Glass can cause deep cuts and splinters that are sometimes difficult to see.
  • Thorns and Prickles: Often from plants or bushes, thorns can be barbed and require careful removal.
  • Wood Splinters: Often from wooden furniture or construction materials, wood splinters can be tricky due to the possibility of splintering further into the skin.

Statistics​

of All Doctors in the UK are GPs
0 %
GPs per 10000 people in the UK
0
times, on average, a person sees a GP a year
0
years of additional training is required for GPs
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Preventing Splinters

Preventing splinters helps avoid discomfort and infections.

  • Wear Protective Gear: When engaging in activities like gardening, woodworking, or handling materials that may cause splinters, wearing gloves can help protect your skin from getting splintered
  • Use Proper Tools: Ensure that you use the correct tools for the job. For example, using the right type of equipment for cutting or handling materials can reduce the risk of splintering
  • Inspect Materials: Before using wood or other materials, check for any splinters or rough edges. Sanding or smoothing materials can help prevent splinters from forming
  • Be Cautious With Sharp Objects: Handle sharp objects with care and ensure they are stored safely to avoid accidental injury and splintering
  • Regular Skin Checks: If you work in environments prone to splinters, regularly inspect your skin for any foreign objects that may have entered and address them promptly
  • Keep Workspaces Clean: Maintain a tidy work area by regularly cleaning up wood shavings, debris, and other materials that can contribute to splintering. A clean workspace can help minimise the risk of splinters
Blood sample tube for testing

How To Book A Private GP Appointment?

book online or call us

Use our online booking engine or book your appointment by giving us a call.

Choose your appointment

On the online booking engine select the “appointment type” you need.

meet with our experts

You will be seen by one of our friendly doctors or trained clinicians.

The Procedure

preparing for appointment

Pre-Appointment

To get the help you need, simply call our clinic to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced medical professionals. Our friendly staff will assist you in setting up a convenient time for your visit. We prioritise your health and well-being, so you will not have to wait long for an appointment. Do not attempt to remove the splinter yourself with tweezers or needles, as improper removal can push it in further or cause infection.

during the appointment

Appointment

During your appointment, our healthcare specialist will carefully assess the splinter. This evaluation is essential to determine the type of material, penetration depth, and potential complications, such as infection. We take all necessary precautions to ensure the splinter is identified accurately. The provider will use sterilised tools, such as tweezers or a needle, to carefully remove the splinter. If the splinter is deeply embedded or difficult to remove, they may use a local anaesthetic to numb the area.

post appointment

Post-Appointment

Keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or pus. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. Over-the-counter pain relief can be used if you experience discomfort; follow the dosage instructions as needed. Clean the area gently with soap and water. Use an antiseptic ointment to prevent infection and apply a sterile bandage or dressing to protect the area, especially if the splinter was deep or the skin was damaged.

Why Choose Walk In Clinic For
Your Private GP?

Incorporated
in 1998

Experienced doctors & a professional team.

Registration
not needed

Up-to-date with the latest treatments & testing.

Strictly
confidential

Your medical records are kept private at all times.

Affordable private
health care

Transparent fee structure with no hidden charges.

testimonials​

All reviews
4.8
Google
Google
4.8
Trustindex
Trustindex
5.0
Provenexpert
Provenexpert
5.0
Yell
Yell
5.0
ExcellentTrustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 54.8451 reviews
4.8Trustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 5
Excellent451 reviews
ExcellentGoogle star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 54.8443 reviews
4.8Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Excellent443 reviews
ExcellentTrustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 55.01 reviews
5.0Trustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 5
Excellent1 reviews
ExcellentProvenexpert star 1Provenexpert star 2Provenexpert star 3Provenexpert star 4Provenexpert star 55.01 reviews
5.0Provenexpert star 1Provenexpert star 2Provenexpert star 3Provenexpert star 4Provenexpert star 5
Excellent1 reviews
ExcellentYell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 55.06 reviews
5.0Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5
Excellent6 reviews
Posted on Google Google
Jooyoung Nam profile picture
Jooyoung Nam
10 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had a very positive experience at this clinic for my blood test and the follow-up with the GP. I particularly appreciated the care and attention throughout the process, including the follow-up after my results. Thank you to the team for making the experience so reassuring. I would happily recommend this clinic.
Posted on Google Google
Lucy Cropper profile picture
Lucy Cropper
31 August 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had a fantastic experience at the Harley Street clinic. Staff were very welcoming and professional and booked my second blood test here also.
Posted on Google Google
Truman Packard profile picture
Truman Packard
19 August 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The service was efficient, personable and very complete. The doctor who saw me was very good, patient and sensitive. I’ll be going back.
Posted on Google Google
Sue Heald profile picture
Sue Heald
11 August 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
As an international visitor, I was very grateful for the prompt attention to my request for an appointment. Dr Ali was respectful and empathetic in regard to my condition and suggested further treatment, which I was able to organise for the next day. Both offices I attended treated me appropriately and I would recommend Harley Street Health Walk-in Clinics to anyone visiting London who requires medical attention.
Posted on Trustindex Trustindex
Isabella Johnson profile picture
Isabella Johnson
3 August 2026
Trustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Trustindex.
Highly recommend City Walk-In Clinic Really pleased with my experience at City Walk-In Clinic. I booked a female hormone test because I wanted some answers about a few symptoms I'd been having, and the whole process was straightforward. The staff were welcoming, friendly and didn't make me feel rushed at all. The blood test was quick, and they explained everything clearly before taking the sample. My results came back sooner than I expected, and it was reassuring to have everything presented in a way that was easy to understand. I'd definitely use the clinic again and would recommend it to anyone looking for a private female hormone test. Professional service, lovely staff and an all round positive experience.
Posted on Google Google
Anabella Styles profile picture
Anabella Styles
9 July 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had a private gp appointment yesterday as my feet have been swelling every day over the past few days. So I booked an appointment with Dr Heather. Dr Heather explained the possible causes of the swelling, including the heat that we are currently experiencing in London. Recommended further investigation if the swelling persists, to identify the underlying issue rather than just making assumptions.
Posted on Google Google
Mary Anne profile picture
Mary Anne
3 July 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I have used City Walk In Clinic as my go to place for routine blood tests. My recent full health check gave my doctor some clues that i may be approaching my menopause era. So my doctor has recommended that i do some tests to find out if indeed i am entering perimenopause, as the symptoms are there. Will be having my tests in the next few weeks. So glad i had a full health check, because all these symptoms were driving me crazy.
Posted on Google Google
Dona P profile picture
Dona P
24 June 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Really good service throughout. Reception staff were welcoming and the blood test was efficient and quick. Highly recommended as blood tests can be booked on the day with results being sent very quickly.
Posted on Google Google
A B profile picture
A B
23 June 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great location for blood tests if you want very fast results! I got my results the same day, highly recommend!
Posted on Google Google
Grace Vizcaino profile picture
Grace Vizcaino
2 June 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Very good service at a very reasonable cost. Same day results, I do recommend this clinic and would certainly be using it again.
Posted on Google Google
Shona McGovern profile picture
Shona McGovern
16 May 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I attended The Harley Street Walk/in centre in the City recently. I was able to book my appointment the day before for a blood test at a time that suited me. The booking process was straightforward. The doctor that conducted the venous draw was efficient and very pleasant. I have never had such a painless venous draw and I have had many! My appointment was at 5pm and I had my results before 8 am the following day. I will be very happy to book my tests here in the future. Thank you.
Posted on Google Google
Monju Zaman profile picture
Monju Zaman
19 April 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Very easy to arrange the appointment with plenty of immediate availability. Very convenient location. Friendly medical associate who took my blood and results arrived very promptly, ie early the next day. Seamless experience.
Posted on Google Google
Nat N profile picture
Nat N
17 April 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Attentive, welcoming and professional staff in a great area which is easy to get to! I always feel like I'm in good hands
Posted on Google Google
Abdalla Mohamud Mohamed profile picture
Abdalla Mohamud Mohamed
18 March 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had a very good experience at the clinic. The staff were punctual friendly and professional. I had a blood test done and received the results quickly on the same day. I would definitely recommend visiting them.
Posted on Google Google
Ena Quinn profile picture
Ena Quinn
9 March 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Speedy and efficient place for quick bloods. Results have been same day for me. Very friendly staff too which is always a bonus
Posted on Google Google
Arthur Attwell profile picture
Arthur Attwell
22 January 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great experience. I was visiting London from abroad and I needed a blood test before travelling onward. I arrived without an appointment and was done in 20 minutes. The staff were all lovely. I received my test results by email the next morning.
Posted on Google Google
Omar profile picture
Omar
19 January 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Really professional and friendly. They always provide their results quickly!
Posted on Google Google
Antigoni S. profile picture
Antigoni S.
17 January 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Very good experience — all the staff were very polite, I was assisted immediately, and the results were available the same day. Thank you very much Private City Clinic!
Posted on Google Google
Sheila Daley profile picture
Sheila Daley
31 December 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I wanted a cholesterol check up and chose this clinic because it seemed to offer a competitive price for a detailed report. And so it turned out to be. Received a prompt and professional service at a price that was significantly less than other nearby providers in central London. I have now used it twice and would definitely recommend.
Posted on Yell Yell
JenniferP-344 profile picture
JenniferP-344
18 February 2025
Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Yell.
I appreciated the discreet and professional care during my sexual health test. The clinic made me feel safe and respected, and the results were delivered quickly and privately. Definitely recommend if you value confidentiality.
Posted on Yell Yell
MichelleD-11 profile picture
MichelleD-11
21 February 2024
Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Yell.
I can't express enough how pleased I am with the Private Walk-in Clinic. As someone who values privacy and comfort, this clinic hits all the marks. The waiting areas are designed for relaxation, and the staff ensures confidentiality at every step.
Posted on Provenexpert Provenexpert
Anonymously profile picture
Anonymously
4 December 2023
Provenexpert star 1Provenexpert star 2Provenexpert star 3Provenexpert star 4Provenexpert star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Provenexpert.
The Walk-In Clinic in central London exceeded my expectations in every way. Their attention to detail and commitment to tailored care for their patients truly sets them apart. The availability of evening appointments until 6:30 pm was a game-changer for someone like me juggling multiple commitments.
Posted on Yell Yell
LunaW23 profile picture
LunaW23
14 May 2021
Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Yell.
They are so fast. One call and I am there in a few hours, always the same team and so polite and nice.
Posted on Yell Yell
JuliaSf profile picture
JuliaSf
14 October 2020
Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Yell.
I hope these guys open up again soon because I really cannot stand anyone else around here. they were perfect for me for tests and consultations whenever I needed them
Posted on Yell Yell
Emily-M profile picture
Emily-M
2 August 2019
Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Yell.
i have used these guys many times in the last 6 years and its always very fast and professional. most tests are done in 24hours and they call you to explain the results. recommended if you gp (like mine) gives you an appointment in 4 weeks time.

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Test prices do not include a consultation.

Remove Splinters

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We work with experienced consultants & healthcare professionals who have received positive feedback from our patients, and with whom we have established long-term relationships.

fAQ

What are the complications of a splinter?
If a splinter (usually of wood, glass, or metal) is not completely removed, it may cause infection, inflammation, or a toxicity response. Even once the main, visible piece of the splinter has been removed, small pieces may still remain under the skin.
Will the splinter go away if I wait?
It is best to get a painful splinter dealt with as soon as possible, to avoid invasive removal procedures. A fresh splinter usually has an open injury track through which it can be easily removed. The longer the splinter is present, the more likely the skin will attempt to heal over it, making removal more difficult. If the splinter is small and not painful, it may work itself out on its own.
What are some things to be aware of when removing a splinter?
Clean the area of the splinter with soap and water. Be sure to use clean, sterilised tweezers (use soap and water and alcohol). If you are unable to remove the entire visible splinter, be sure to see a doctor for proper removal.
How can I reduce the risk of infection after removing a splinter?
Untreated splinters can cause infection, abscess formation, or prolonged inflammation. Some materials, like rusted metal, may increase the risk of tetanus.

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