Hangnails are small, but they may be incredibly annoying and painful. They often appear when the skin around your nails becomes dry, cracked, or damaged. Although most hangnails are harmless and may be treated at home, they will sometimes result in infection if not properly cared for.
What is a hang nail?
A hangnail is a small, torn piece of skin that appears at the sting of the nail. Despite its name, a hangnail isn't a part of the nail itself but as an alternative a bit of skin that may peel off the sting of the nail. Hangnails are common and may be painful, especially in the event that they get caught on something or grow to be infected.
Why do hangnails occur?
Hang nails often form when the skin around your nails becomes dry and damaged. Common causes include cold weather, frequent hand washing, or exposure to harsh chemicals. People who clip their nails or pick at their skin are also more prone to develop ingrown toenails. If your nails are broken or your hands are in a number of water, flaking may also occur, akin to when washing dishes.
Home remedies for hangnails
Hangnails can often be managed at home. Here's how:
- Soak your fingers. Start by soaking your fingers in warm, soapy water for about 10 minutes to melt the skin.
- Trim fastidiously. Using sterile nail clippers or small scissors, gently trim the hangnail near the skin. You could also be tempted to select off the raised piece of skin, but that is something it's best to avoid. Tearing the skin can further damage the bottom and increase the danger of cuticle infection.
- Apply moisturizer. Use a fragrance-free moisturizing cream or just a little petroleum jelly to maintain the skin around your nails moisturized. Another option is to make use of a small amount of an over-the-counter antibacterial ointment akin to Bactericin.
- Bandage if needed. If the realm is sore or bleeding, cover it with a bandage to stop infection until it heals.
How to stop hangnails
The best option to prevent hangnails is to maintain the skin around your nails healthy and hydrated. These skin and nail care suggestions may help:
- Maintain clean, dry and hydrated skin. Wash your hands and feet with a gentle cleanser, ensuring to dry them thoroughly afterwards. Use a each day moisturizer and reapply after each wash. Use a fragrance-free hand cream or cuticle oil to maintain your skin soft.
- Don't cut your nails. Biting your nails or picking on the skin around them can result in tears and infections. Instead, fastidiously trim your nails with a clean tool and avoid cutting your cuticles.
- Protect your hands by wearing gloves. For activities like washing dishes, wear cotton gloves, akin to vinyl, under waterproof gloves. Use protective gloves when cleansing, gardening, or spending time outdoors in cold weather.
- Make nail care a priority. Trim your nails straight using sharp nail clippers or scissors. Use an emery board to round the ideas barely and smooth any rough edges or burrs. Avoid using your nails as tools – for instance, don't use a nail to open a soda can.
When to See a Doctor for Hangnails
Most hangnails resolve on their very own with home care. However, when the protective skin barrier across the nail is broken, it will probably let in bacteria that could cause infection. This is often known as severe paronychia. Symptoms of infection include:
- Title: The skin across the nail becomes red and inflamed.
- Swelling: The affected area may appear swollen or inflamed.
- Pain or tenderness: The area across the nail may feel sore or painful, especially when touched.
- Heat: Affected skin may feel warm to the touch.
- Pus: If the infection progresses, a pocket of yellow or white fluid (pus) may form near the nail.
If you notice these symptoms, it's a great idea to hunt medical attention, especially if the infection doesn't improve or gets worse. Affected hangnails may be painful. And if left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of your finger.