Abstract: In a top comb for a combing machine, having at least one row of stamped needles that are arranged in a parallel side-by-side relation and enclosed between two cover plates with a free needle projection (8) being left free, wherein compressed air channels are formed between the cover plates and adjacent pairs of needles are provided, in order to increase the efficiency of the cleaning effect, that the needles (1,1′,1″) incorporate embossings such that the congruent embossings of adjacent needles form an air channel (9,9′,9″), wherein the embossings taper in their widths towards the outlet area (outlet opening 11,11′,11″).