If you’ve noticed a tiny, painful piece of skin sticking out near your fingernail or toenail, you likely have a hangnail. It’s a small but annoying problem almost everyone experiences at some point. While hangnails might seem like a minor nuisance, they can turn into more than an annoyance if not handled properly.
A hangnail is not part of the nail itself. It is a small, torn strip of skin that separates from the edge of the cuticle or the side of the nail. This can happen when the skin around your nails dries out, cracks or gets damaged. Hangnails are particularly common during the colder months, in people who wash their hands often, or when the hands are exposed to harsh soaps or chemicals.
Most of the time, home remedies for a hangnail can treat discomfort. However, if ignored or treated incorrectly, hangnails can lead to pain, infection and more serious complications. With a little knowledge and the right care, you can treat hangnails safely and learn about hangnail prevention to stop them from coming back.
Causes of Hangnails
Hangnails occur when the skin around the nail plate is damaged or weakened. The cuticle area separates from the underlying skin and forms a small, raised piece of skin that can catch or snag. While hangnails on the fingers are more common, they can also appear around toenails. The main reasons include:
- Dry skin: Cold weather, washing hands too often with harsh soaps and low humidity can dry out the skin, making it more likely to crack and form hangnails.
- Nail-biting or picking: Biting your nails or picking at the skin around them can create small tears, leading to hangnails and even infection.
- Harsh chemicals: Exposure to cleaning products, detergents or nail polish removers can strip moisture from your skin and nails.
- Injury: Minor trauma, like catching your finger on something, cutting your nails too short or even a paper cut, can cause the skin to tear.
- Skin conditions: Underlying skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis can also increase your risk.
Understanding these causes can help you take steps to protect your nails and prevent hangnails from forming.
How to Get Rid of a Hangnail
Treating a hangnail quickly and in the right way can prevent pain and hangnail infections. Use this safe, step-by-step guide to treat your hangnails:
- Soak in warm, soapy water: Start by soaking the affected finger or toe in warm, soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes. This will soften the skin and make the hangnail easier to trim. Make sure the water you’re using is free from contaminants. Bottled water is clean and safe for drinking, making it an effective option. You can also boil tap water and wait for it to cool.
- Trim with clean nail clippers or cuticle nippers: Use sanitized nail clippers or cuticle nippers to carefully trim the hangnail as close to the base as possible. Avoid cutting into live skin. You can sanitize your nail clippers by wiping them with an alcohol swab or rubbing alcohol. By trimming away excess skin, you can avoid snagging your hangnail on clothing or bed linen.
- Apply antiseptic ointment: After trimming, apply a small amount of antiseptic or antibiotic ointment to the area to reduce painful swelling and the risk of hangnail infection.
- Cover with a bandage: If the area is sore, bleeding or exposed, cover it with a clean bandage to keep bacteria out and protect it while it heals.
Treating a hangnail can take time. Here’s what to avoid to reduce healing time:
- Pulling or biting: If the hangnail tears, this will worsen the injury and can introduce bacteria.
- Ignoring the hangnail: An untreated hangnail can become infected, especially if you have excessively dry skin or an underlying skin condition like eczema or psoriasis.
- Limit exposure to irritants: If you’re likely to come into contact with chemicals or your hands are often wet — such as if you’re a florist, hairdresser or bartender — wear gloves or a barrier cream to protect your skin and nails.
By following these steps, you can help your skin heal quickly and comfortably.
Hangnail Prevention
Prevention is the best way to avoid the discomfort of hangnails. Here are some simple strategies:
- Moisturize regularly: Apply hand cream or cuticle oil daily, especially after washing your hands, to keep the skin around your nails soft and hydrated.
- Avoid nail-biting or picking: Break the habit of biting your nails or picking at your skin. This can cause tears and hangnails and introduce bacteria.
- Use gloves: Wear gloves when cleaning, gardening or using harsh chemicals to protect your hands from drying out or getting injured.
- Proper nail care: Trim your nails straight across and gently round the edges. Avoid cutting cuticles — they protect the nail bed from infection.
- Stay hydrated: Drink water throughout the day to keep your skin healthy from the inside out. Men should consume about 15.5 cups per day, and women should consume around 11.5 cups daily.
Consistent care can significantly reduce your risk of developing hangnails.
When to See a Doctor
While most hangnails heal with home care, there are times when you should seek medical attention. Early medical care can prevent complications and ensure your nails and skin heal properly.
If you notice redness, swelling, pus, increased pain, warmth around the nail or any discoloration, these may be signs of infection and will require professional treatment. If a hangnail doesn’t improve after a week of home care, or if it keeps coming back, you can speak to a health care provider about hangnail treatment. If you have diabetes, a compromised immune system or poor circulation, you should be especially cautious. Infections can develop quickly and become serious.
Ready for Relief From Foot Discomfort?
Hangnails are a common and usually minor problem, but they can be painful if not handled correctly. Most can be treated using simple home remedies, like soaking, trimming and moisturizing. By understanding the causes and practicing good nail care, you can prevent hangnails from becoming a recurring issue.
Remember, prevention is key. Keep your hands and feet moisturized, avoid biting or picking, and protect your skin from harsh chemicals and injury. These small habits can make a big difference in your nail health and overall comfort.
If you notice signs of infection or have a hangnail that won’t heal, reach out to a health care professional. At Foot & Ankle Surgical Associates, we’re here to help you put your best foot forward. Contact us online or call us at 360-754-FEET to learn how our advanced care and friendly team can support your nail and foot health.
