Hangnails may be small, but they rank among the most disproportionately irritating skin problems people face. They tend to appear suddenly, catch on clothing or hair, and the instinctive reaction is to pull them off, a move that often makes things worse.
Despite the name, a hangnail is not part of the nail itself. It is a small piece of dry or damaged skin around the nail. When the skin surrounding the nail becomes dehydrated and more sensitive, it can split and form these small protrusions.
Dryness is a leading cause
Frequent hand washing, antiseptics, cleaning products and prolonged contact with water strip the skin's natural moisture. As a result, the skin around the nails becomes drier and tears more easily. Habits such as biting the nails or pulling at loose skin add further strain to the area.
Another factor that is often overlooked is overly aggressive manicures. Excessive cuticle removal or forceful pushing back of the cuticles can injure the protective skin around the nail, making hangnails more likely to form.
Do not pull them
As tempting as it is, pulling a hangnail can tear the skin further, causing pain and bleeding. If removal is necessary, the safer approach is to soften the area first with lukewarm water and then carefully trim it with a clean tool.
The simple trick to prevent them
Daily moisturising is perhaps the simplest habit that can make a real difference. Applying hand cream after washing, combined with a cuticle oil at night, helps keep the skin around the nails softer and better protected.
For people who develop hangnails often, the solution is not to keep trimming them but to care for the area before it has a chance to dry out. Consistent moisturising, wearing gloves for household chores and avoiding pulling at the cuticles can significantly improve the condition of the hands.
When to see a doctor
If intense pain, swelling, redness or pus appears around the nail, it is advisable to seek medical advice, as these can be signs of infection.
