A hangnail is an often painful piece of skin that tears away from the side or base of a fingernail. Despite its name, it is not part of the nail itself but a segment of skin around it. These small tears can be irritating and, if not managed properly, may lead to discomfort or infection. Understanding their origins and how to address them can help maintain healthy hands and nails.
Common Causes
Hangnails develop when the skin around the nails experiences a lack of moisture, making it dry. This dryness can result from frequent hand washing, exposure to harsh chemicals, or cold, dry weather conditions. When skin loses its natural oils, it becomes prone to cracking and tearing, leading to hangnail formation.
Physical damage to the nail area also contributes to hangnails. This includes habits like nail biting or picking at the skin, which can weaken the skin barrier. Aggressive manicure practices, such as cutting or pushing back cuticles too forcefully, can also damage the delicate skin and lead to these tears. Any trauma or injury to the fingers can initiate a hangnail.
Preventative Measures
Maintaining adequate moisture is important in preventing hangnails. Regularly applying hand cream or cuticle oil keeps the skin around the nails supple and less likely to tear. Moisturizing is beneficial after washing hands or when exposed to dry air. This consistent hydration supports the skin’s natural barrier function.
Protecting hands from harsh environmental factors also helps prevent hangnails. Wearing gloves for household chores, like washing dishes or cleaning, shields the skin from drying agents. Avoiding excessive exposure to water can also prevent skin weakening around the nails. Refraining from biting nails or picking at the surrounding skin is important. Properly trimming nails straight across, without cutting them too short or aggressively manipulating cuticles, minimizes the risk.
Safe Removal and Aftercare
When a hangnail appears, resist the urge to pull or tear it, as this can worsen the tear and lead to infection. Instead, soften the skin around the hangnail. Soaking the affected finger in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes can help soften the skin, making it easier to manage and cleansing the area.
After softening, use clean, sharp cuticle nippers or scissors to carefully snip off the hanging skin at its base. Ensure tools are sanitized to prevent infection. Following removal, apply an antiseptic ointment to help prevent bacterial entry. Monitor the site for signs of infection, including increased redness, swelling, pain, warmth, or pus. If these symptoms appear or worsen, or if the hangnail does not heal within a week, seeking medical advice is recommended.