Should I put ether on a tick before removing it?

It is not recommended to apply ether or any other substance to a tick before removing it.

Using ether, alcohol, oil, nail polish, petroleum jelly or other substances can irritate or suffocate the tick, which can lead to the release of more saliva or even vomit from the tick into the wound. This can increase the risk of transmitting diseases such as Lyme disease or other tick-borne infections.

To remove a tick, use fine pointed tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible. Make sure you hold the tick firmly, but not too hard, without squeezing the tick's body. Pull slowly and evenly without twisting or prying. This minimizes the chance that parts of the tick remain in the skin.

After the tick has been removed, clean the area with soap and water or rubbing alcohol. Watch for signs of infection, rash, or other symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, or muscle aches for several weeks. If you notice symptoms of an infection or have concerns about the tick bite, contact a doctor.

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/after-a-tick-bite/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/removing_a_tick.html

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2022-12-01 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025