A method of removing splinters and the like from the human body includes steps wherein the upper cellular layers of the skin in the area of the splinter are removed by applying substantially unidirectional shaving strokes to the area with a razor-like blade in a direction substantially opposite the direction of insertion of the splinter. After an amount of skin sufficient to expose a portion of the splinter has been removed, continued unidirectional stroking causes the blade to cut slightly into the now exposed splinter to effect the grasping thereof with the blade, whereupon the splinter is extracted by the blade. The preferred apparatus used in performing the method comprises a cutting head, a razor-like blade mounted in the cutting head and an offset handle attached to the cutting head for guiding the apparatus across the skin of a patient to effect shaving strokes in accordance with the method.