Use a hemostat or tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the embedded site as possible. Avoid squeezing or crushing the tick.

Apply steady traction upward and perpendicular to the skin. Twisting counter clockwise may facilitate removal.

Do not twist the tick or use a jerking motion as this may cause the mouth-parts to break off and remain embedded in the skin.

Thoroughly clean the bite area with soap and water. If tick mouth parts are left behind, a biopsy or excision may be necessary.

Dispose of the tick by flushing it down the toilet, placing it in a sealed container, wrapping it tightly in paper, or putting it in rubbing alcohol. Never crush a tick with your fingers.