What to apply to a tick so it will detach quickly? - briefly
Grasp the tick with fine‑tipped tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure, avoiding squeezing the body. A dedicated tick‑removal tool can achieve the same result with minimal risk of crushing.
What to apply to a tick so it will detach quickly? - in detail
Apply a fine‑pointed, sterile instrument (e.g., tweezers) to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure; avoid twisting or squeezing the body, which can inject saliva and increase infection risk.
If a chemical aid is desired, use one of the following agents, applied directly to the tick’s mouthparts for a few seconds before removal:
- 70 % isopropyl alcohol – quickly desiccates the tick, weakening its grip.
- 1 % lidocaine gel – numbs the tick, reducing its reflex to cling.
- Petroleum jelly – creates a slippery surface, allowing the mouthparts to release.
Procedure for chemical assistance:
- Place a drop of the chosen agent on the tick’s ventral side.
- Wait 10–15 seconds for the substance to act.
- Grasp the tick with tweezers and pull upward in a single motion.
- Disinfect the bite area with alcohol or iodine after removal.
Do not use petroleum ether, nail polish remover, or heat, as these can cause the tick to regurgitate harmful fluids. After extraction, store the tick in a sealed container if identification is needed, otherwise discard it safely. Monitor the bite site for redness, swelling, or fever for up to two weeks; seek medical advice if symptoms develop.