How to Remove Cactus Prickles

People who harvest cacti or hike around cactus plants are bound to get stung from time to time. Opuntia, or prickly pear cacti -- the most common cactus in the U.S. -- have two kinds of spines: large, visible prickles, and tiny, fine spines called glochidia. The glochidia are the most difficult to see and remove, and will cause dermatitis if left in the skin. You can remove most, if not all, large spines and glochidia with a few common household objects.

Things You'll Need

• Tweezers or needle-nose pliers
• Magnifying glass
• White glue
• Gauze
• Antibiotic cream
• Sterile adhesive bandages

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Pull out large spines with tweezers or needle-nose pliers. If a portion of cactus skin is still attached, place a comb underneath it and flick it away from you.

   • 2

     Pull out as many small spines as possible with tweezers. Use a magnifying glass to help find all the tiny spines.

   • 3

     Spread a thin layer of white glue over the affected area, and cover the glue with gauze. Wait for the glue to dry thoroughly, then rip off the gauze to remove the spines.

   • 4

     Wash the affected skin with soap and water, and treat wounds with antibiotic cream and adhesive bandages.