Abstract: A method is provided of facilitating the removal of foreign objects embedded in skin, generally referred to as splinters, by chemical means. The method involves topically applying, to the skin at a point adjacent to the splinter, such as the point at which the splinter entered the skin, a chemical composition including salicylic acid. The chemical composition may also include an antibiotic to promote healing, and a vehicle, such as petrolatum. When placed in contact with the skin at a point adjacent to the splinter, by a dressing or other carrier secured to the skin, the chemical composition causes desquamation of injured skin scales, epidermal hydration, and diffuse loosening of the embedded splinter.