Even experienced gardeners have to deal with irritating plants that can cut, sting, and cause painful or itchy, irritated skin. Here are some ways to relieve the discomfort and treat skin abrasions from plants. Some plants are very irritating to the skin due to thorns, needles, sharp edges, or hairs. For example, agave, yucca, and pampas grass have needle-sharp leaves or razor-sharp edges. Rose bushes and bougainvillea have thorns, while cacti like the prickly pear have fine, barbed thorns called glochids. Plants like borage and forget-me-nots have fine hairs that can cause irritation. Even tulip bulbs can cause skin abrasions due to tiny fibers and certain chemicals. To treat skin abrasions and irritation: 1. Avoid further irritation. 2. Clean the wound with mild soap and water. Avoid using witch hazel or rubbing alcohol. 3. Remove any remaining spines or barbs using tweezers or cellophane tape. For tiny hairs or glochids, apply household glue and gauze, then remove after 30 minutes. 4. Ease pain and itching with a cool water compress or over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or antihistamine. 5. Soothe skin with moisture-rich creams like petroleum jelly. 6. Cover with a bandage for protection during the day and let it air out at night. 7. Monitor the area for signs of infection, such as pus, increased redness, or warmth. If these symptoms appear, contact your doctor. For prevention, wear long sleeves, pants, and protective gloves when working in the garden or hiking. Keeping skin moisturized and healthy can also help prevent irritation.