Ring Removal – 4 Ways to Remove a Ring That’s Too Small
If you have ever been in the unfortunate position of having your prized engagement ring stuck on your finger, you know all too well how uncomfortable it can be.
At Holloway, we’ve seen plenty of cases of engagement rings stuck on swollen fingers – especially during the warmer months – and it hurts me to say, we’ve even had to saw some off in the past. However, before you come in asking us to perform such a procedure (even though we can easily fix your ring once we’ve removed it), here are a few more delicate methods for your consideration for Ring Removal.
Stage 1: The Elevation Method
Raise your hand up to the sky, as high as you possibly can to get all the blood to rush out of your hand. Keep your arm up there for as long as you can or until it hurts. Once it begins to hurt, quickly lower it and pull as hard as you can.
Stage 2: The Lubrication Method
There’s a wealth of everyday household items that can help you to use for Ring Removal, but generally. ammonia-based cleaners such as Windex work best.
- Vaseline
- Windex (or other window cleaners)
- Hand lotion
- Butter
- Petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment
- Soap & water
- Baby Oil
Remember: If your skin is broken or cut, use a more delicate lubricant such as Vaseline, hand lotion or baby oil.
Stage 3: The Cold Water Method
If your fingers are swollen due to warmer temperatures, try placing your hand in cool (but not ice cold) water, and soak it for three to five minutes. Then simply take it out and give it a good, firm yank.
Stage 4: The Dental Floss Method
If all of the above fails then this is your best bet, but be careful, you may be better off seeking a trained medical practitioner before attempting the dental floss method.
Start off by slipping one end of the dental floss underneath the ring. If necessary use a needle to get the dental floss under the ring.
Following this, wrap the dental floss around your finger, up to your knuckle. Remember to wind it snugly, but not so tightly that your finger turns blue.
Finally, unwind the dental floss – beginning at the base of the finger. As you unwind the dental floss, your ring should move up your finger allowing you to get it off. If your ring only slides partially off, repeat the two previous steps, starting from the ring’s current position.
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