How to Remove Cactus Needles or Spines

Cacti evolved to defend themselves against animals seeking water.

All desert hikers --- and gardeners --- eventually get cactus spines lodged in their fingers, legs, boots or jeans. Since cacti grow in a place with very little moisture, they've developed sharp spines that repel any people or animals trying to harvest their water. Unfortunately, cacti can't distinguish between an attacker and a tender or innocent hiker, so they prick indiscriminately. However, there are a few simple techniques you can use to get rid of both large cactus joints and small, fine needles without further injuring yourself or those around you.

Things You'll Need

• Small comb
• First aid kit
• White school glue

Instructions

Large Spines

1. Assess where the spines are located. If they're sticking in your clothing or shoes and haven't broken skin, your task is relatively fast and simple. If the spines have broken skin, you need to be more careful.

2. Slide the end of a small comb, like the kind men keep in their pockets, under a cluster of cactus spines lodged in either your clothing or skin. Push the comb outward, flicking the spines away from you and other people or animals. This will hurt if the spines are buried in your skin.

3. Comb down over the area to remove any remaining spines. Again, this will be painful if the spines have broken skin, but it's necessary.

4. Dress the wounds with a disinfectant spray or gel, and wrap them tightly with gauze and medical tape.

Small Needles

1. Attend to small needles as soon as you feel them pierce your skin. They can work their way all the way under your skin and cause infection the way a splinter can.

2. Drip white school glue over the area, gently spreading it with a finger. Do not press down on the spines; you'll just lodge them deeper in your skin.

3. Allow the school glue to dry completely. It should be completely clear and feel papery when dry.

4. Slowly and gently peel away the layer of glue. The needles should stick in the glue and come away with it.

5. Immediately dress the area with disinfectant and a plastic bandage.

Tips & Warnings

• Wearing long pants, hiking boots and shin guards prevents cactus injuries and animal bites when hiking in the desert.

• Use rubber cement to remove fine needles if you don't have white glue.

• Wear surgical or rubber gloves when tending your cacti to prevent needles from sticking in either the gloves or your skin. Never touch your eyes after tending cacti until you've washed your hands.

References

• The Outdoor Princess; Removing Cactus Spines; May 2011
• Sunset; A Trick for Removing Cactus Spines; Sharoon Cohoon; July 2008