Why Do Hangnails Happen? Learn the Causes and Solutions

Hangnails can be a pesky and painful annoyance that many people experience. Despite their name, hangnails are not actually nails. They are small, torn pieces of skin near the base or sides of the fingernails. While they might seem like a minor issue, hangnails can lead to significant discomfort and potential infection if not properly managed. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the causes of hangnails, effective prevention strategies, and the best treatment options available.

Understanding Hangnails

What Are Hangnails?

Hangnails are small, torn pieces of skin that appear next to the fingernails. They are typically found on the sides of the nails or at the base, where the cuticle meets the skin. Hangnails can be caused by various factors, including dry skin, nail-biting, and frequent exposure to water or chemicals. They are often painful and can become infected if not properly cared for.

Common Symptoms of Hangnails

• Pain and Tenderness: Hangnails are often accompanied by pain and tenderness around the affected area.
• Redness and Swelling: The skin around a hangnail can become red and swollen, especially if it becomes infected.
• Dryness and Peeling: The skin around the nails may appear dry and start peeling, leading to the formation of hangnails.
• Infection: If bacteria enter the torn skin, it can lead to infection, causing pus, increased pain, and further swelling.

Causes of Hangnails

Dry Skin

Dry skin is one of the most common causes of hangnails. When the skin around the nails becomes dry and brittle, it is more prone to cracking and tearing, resulting in hangnails. Factors that contribute to dry skin include:

• Cold Weather: Low humidity and cold temperatures can strip the skin of its natural moisture.
• Frequent hand washing: Excessive washing or using harsh soaps can dehydrate the skin.
• Lack of Moisturization: Neglecting to moisturize the hands and cuticles can lead to dryness and hangnails.

Nail-Biting and Picking

Nail-biting and picking at the skin around the nails can cause hangnails. These habits can damage the cuticles and surrounding skin, making them more susceptible to tearing. The constant trauma to the area can also delay the healing process and increase the risk of infection.

Chemical Exposure

Exposure to harsh chemicals, such as cleaning agents and nail polish removers, can weaken the skin around the nails, leading to hangnails. Chemicals can strip the skin of its natural oils, making it dry and prone to tearing.

Poor Nail Care

Neglecting proper nail care can contribute to the development of hangnails. Improper trimming of nails, cuticles, and failure to maintain overall nail health can result in damaged skin and hangnails.

Trauma to the Nails

Physical trauma, such as stubbing a finger or catching a nail on something, can cause the skin around the nails to tear and form hangnails. Even minor injuries can lead to significant discomfort and potential complications if not treated properly.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing hangnails involves maintaining healthy skin and nails through proper care and hydration. Here are some effective strategies to prevent hangnails:

Keep Your Hands Moisturized

Moisturizing your hands regularly is essential to prevent dry skin and hangnails. Use a high-quality hand cream or lotion that contains hydrating ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid. Apply the moisturizer after washing your hands, before bed, and whenever your skin feels dry.

Protect Your Hands

Protecting your hands from harsh environmental factors and chemicals can help prevent hangnails. Wear gloves when cleaning, gardening, or doing any activity that involves exposure to water or chemicals. During cold weather, wear warm gloves to protect your hands from the drying effects of the cold air.

Avoid Nail-Biting and Picking

Breaking the habit of nail-biting and picking at the skin around your nails is crucial to preventing hangnails. Consider using bitter-tasting nail polish to deter nail-biting or keep your hands busy with stress-relief tools like a stress ball or fidget spinner.

Maintain Proper Nail Care

Regular nail care can significantly reduce the risk of hangnails. Here are some nail care tips:

• Trim Nails Regularly: Keep your nails trimmed to a manageable length to prevent them from catching on objects and tearing the skin.
• File Nails Smoothly: Use a nail file to smooth any rough edges that could potentially cause hangnails.
• Care for Cuticles: Gently push back your cuticles using a cuticle pusher and avoid cutting them, as this can lead to hangnails and infections.
• Avoid Harsh Nail Products: Use gentle, non-acetone nail polish removers and avoid products with harsh chemicals that can dry out the skin.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining healthy skin and preventing hangnails. Hydrated skin is less likely to become dry and brittle, reducing the risk of tearing and hangnails.

Treatment Options for Hangnails

If you already have a hangnail, proper treatment is essential to prevent infection and promote healing. Here are some effective treatment options for hangnails:

Gentle Removal

Removing a hangnail properly is crucial to avoid further damage and potential infection. Follow these steps for gentle removal:

1. Soak Your Hands: Soak your hands in warm, soapy water for about 10 minutes to soften the skin and the hangnail.
2. Trim the Hangnail: Use clean, sterilized nail clippers or cuticle scissors to gently trim the hangnail as close to the base as possible. Avoid pulling or ripping the hangnail, as this can cause more damage.
3. Apply Antiseptic: After removing the hangnail, apply an antiseptic ointment or hydrogen peroxide to the area to prevent infection.
4. Moisturize: Apply a hydrating hand cream or cuticle oil to keep the skin around the nails moisturized and promote healing.

Treating Infections

If a hangnail becomes infected, it is essential to address the infection promptly to prevent complications. Signs of infection include increased pain, redness, swelling, and the presence of pus. Follow these steps to treat an infected hangnail:

1. Clean the Area: Clean the infected area with warm water and mild soap.
2. Apply an Antibacterial Ointment: Use an over-the-counter antibacterial ointment to reduce infection and promote healing.
3. Cover the Area: Protect the infected hangnail with a sterile bandage to prevent further irritation and contamination.
4. Seek Medical Attention: If the infection does not improve within a few days or worsens, seek medical attention. Your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics or other treatments to address the infection.

Home Remedies

Several home remedies can help soothe hangnails and promote healing. Here are some popular remedies:

• Aloe Vera: Apply fresh aloe vera gel to the hangnail to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Honey: Honey has natural antibacterial properties that can help prevent infection. Apply a small amount of honey to the hangnail and cover it with a bandage.
• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer that can help soften the skin and reduce dryness. Apply coconut oil to the hangnail and surrounding skin regularly.

Conclusion

Hangnails may be a common and minor issue, but they can cause significant discomfort and potential complications if not properly managed. Understanding the causes of hangnails and implementing effective prevention strategies can help maintain healthy skin and nails. Regular moisturizing, proper nail care, and protecting your hands from harsh environmental factors are essential steps in preventing hangnails. If you do develop a hangnail, gentle removal and proper treatment are crucial to avoid infection and promote healing. By following these tips, you can keep your hands and nails healthy, free from the pain and annoyance of hangnails.