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Removal technique guideWorldwide

Why should a tick be grasped close to the skin?

Grasping close to the skin targets the tick near its mouthparts and reduces the chance of squeezing the swollen body during removal.

Reviewed by VuxLore® Knowledge Team For Everyone

Short answer

Grasping close to the skin targets the tick near its mouthparts and reduces the chance of squeezing the swollen body during removal.

At a glance

Fine-tipped tweezers should approach the attachment point rather than gripping the middle of the tick.

Key takeaways

• Work close to the skin.

• Avoid compressing the body.

• Use steady controlled pressure.

Control starts at the attachment point

A grip across the abdomen can crush or tear the tick. Fine tips allow the user to reach the narrow area where the mouthparts enter the skin.

Match the movement to the tool

Tweezers and purpose-designed removers may have different instructions. Follow the exact tool guidance rather than combining incompatible techniques.

Relevant VuxLore tools

Compare purpose-designed options in our Tick Removal Tools collection and choose the format that suits the situation.

Tick Removal ToolsTick Removal ToolsExplore the range →VuxLore® TRIO™ 3pc Easy Grip Tick Remover Hooks | Made in BritainVuxLore® TRIO™ 3pc Easy Grip Tick Remover Hooks | Made in BritainView product information →VuxLore® MAX™ Easy Grip Tick Remover Tool | Arthritis Friendly | Made in BritainVuxLore® MAX™ Easy Grip Tick Remover Tool | Arthritis Friendly | Made in BritainView product information →VuxLore® POCKET™ EDC Tick Remover Card | Credit Card Sized 8-in-1 Tick Removal Tool for People, Pets & Livestock | Made in BritainVuxLore® POCKET™ EDC Tick Remover Card | Credit Card Sized 8-in-1 Tick Removal Tool for People, Pets & Livestock | Made in BritainView product information →

Sources and further reading

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: What to Do After a Tick Bite

UK Health Security Agency: What are ticks and how can you avoid being bitten?