Hangnails are a common, often uncomfortable, issue affecting the skin around the nails. These small pieces of torn skin can appear at the side or base of a fingernail or, less commonly, a toenail. Despite their name, hangnails are not part of the nail itself but rather a condition involving the skin or cuticle.
Understanding Hangnails: Definition and Causes
A hangnail is a torn piece of skin that lifts away from the nail fold, near the edge or base of a fingernail. It is distinct from an ingrown nail, which occurs when the nail itself grows into the surrounding soft tissue. Hangnails are characterized by a small, ragged piece of skin that may be painful, especially if it snags or is pulled.
Several factors contribute to hangnail formation. Dry skin is a common cause; skin lacking oil is more susceptible to cracking and pulling away. Frequent hand washing, exposure to cold, dry weather, and contact with harsh chemicals like cleaning products or hand sanitizers can deplete skin moisture. Trauma to the nail area, such as picking at nails or cuticles, or minor cuts, also causes hangnails. Improper nail care, including cutting cuticles rather than gently pushing them back, can weaken the nail bed and contribute to their development.
Treating Existing Hangnails
When a hangnail appears, resist the urge to pull or tear it, as this can worsen the tear, increase pain, and lead to infection. First, wash your hands with antibacterial soap and soak the affected finger in warm water for 5 to 15 minutes to soften the skin. This makes the hangnail easier to manage and reduces further tearing.
After soaking, use clean, sharp nail scissors or cuticle clippers to carefully trim the hanging skin at its base. Cut only the loose, detached skin, avoiding live tissue. Following trimming, apply an antibiotic ointment or cream to the area to protect against bacteria and promote healing. Keeping the area moisturized with hand cream or cuticle oil can also soothe discomfort and support healing.
Preventing Hangnails and Recognizing Complications
Regular moisturizing of hands and cuticles can reduce hangnail occurrence. Daily use of hand creams or moisturizing oils helps maintain skin hydration. Protect hands from excessive moisture and harsh chemicals by wearing gloves during tasks like washing dishes, gardening, or cleaning.
Proper nail and cuticle care involves gently pushing back cuticles rather than cutting them, as cutting can damage the skin and increase susceptibility to hangnails and infections. Avoiding nail biting and picking at the skin around the nails prevents trauma that can initiate hangnail formation.
If a hangnail becomes infected, symptoms may include increased pain, redness, swelling, warmth, or pus. This infection, known as paronychia, can spread if left untreated. If home treatment does not improve within a week, or if symptoms like blistering, pus drainage, spreading infection, or changes in nail color or shape occur, consult a doctor or dermatologist.