How To: Remove a ring that is stuck on your finger

Can't get that ring off your finger for the life of you? Avoid a trip to the hospital by using these tricks to safely dislodge a stuck ring.

You Will Need:
• Lubricant, such as hand lotion, petroleum jelly, cooking oil, or soap
• Cool water
• Dental floss
• Patience

Step 1: Don't force it
Avoid pulling and tugging too hard, which could cause your finger to swell and make it more difficult to remove the ring.

Step 2: Lubricate your finger
Lubricate your finger and the ring liberally with hand lotion, petroleum jelly, cooking oil, or soap.

Step 3: Work the ring off
Turn the ring around your finger to get the lubricant underneath. Gently work the ring off the finger, turning it as you go.

Step 4: Bring down swelling
Dip your hand in cool water for a few minutes to help reduce swelling if the lubricants don't work. Elevating your arm can also help reduce swelling.

Step 5: Try dental floss
Wrap dental floss tightly around your finger starting just above the ring. Lubricate the floss and then slip the ring off over the compressed knuckle.

Trivia: In 1477, the Archduke Maximillian of Austria gave Mary of Burgundy the first diamond engagement ring recorded in history.