How to Get Rid of Hangnails: Tips and Remedies

Hangnails are small, pesky pieces of skin that tend to appear at the edge of your nails. They can be painful, irritating, and sometimes even get infected. Hangnails usually occur due to dryness, biting your nails, or nail trauma. Fortunately, with some simple remedies and precautionary measures, it’s possible to get rid of hangnails and keep them from coming back. In this article, we will discuss the causes of hangnails, ways to prevent them, and some simple remedies to manage them.

Understanding Hangnails

Hangnails are strips of dead skin that typically appear around the cuticles. When they tear or get caught on something, they can become very painful and even bleed. The skin around your nails is naturally drier than other parts of your body, which can cause hangnails to form. However, there are certain factors that increase the likelihood of developing hangnails such as nail biting and nail trauma. With proper care, it is possible to prevent hangnails from occurring

Causes of Hangnails

A lack of moisture is the primary cause of hangnails. Dry skin is more likely to crack and peel, which can lead to hangnails forming. Some other causes of hangnails include:

Biting your nails or cuticles
Using harsh soaps or chemicals
Nail trauma, such as hitting or pinching your fingers
Living in a dry climate or low humidity environment

Tips to Prevent Hangnails

It’s essential to take a few precautionary measures to prevent hangnails from forming. Here are a few things you can do to help:

Keep your hands moisturized using a nourishing hand cream throughout the day
Avoid exposing your hands to harsh chemicals and soaps for a prolonged period
Wear gloves while washing dishes and cleaning to protect your hands from damage
Use cuticle oil or balm to keep the cuticles supple and reduce dryness

How to Remove Hangnails At Home

If you already have a hangnail, don’t worry! There are several things you can do to remove them pain-free and prevent them from getting infected. Below are a few simple remedies for removing hangnails at home:

Soak in Warm Water and Epsom Salt

Soaking your nails in warm water and epsom salt for around 10-15 minutes can help soften the skin around your hangnail, making it easier to remove. This remedy will also reduce inflammation and soreness around the affected area. After soaking, gently push back the cuticle and clip off the hangnail close to your finger using cuticle scissors or nail clippers. Do not pull it off, as it may cause further damage and pain.

Moisturizing Remedies

Using natural moisturizing agents such as aloe vera gel or tea tree oil can soften the skin and promote healing of hangnails. Rubbing a few drops of tea tree oil or aloe vera gel to the affected area can help reduce swelling and prevent infection. Coconut oil, olive oil, and petroleum jelly can also help keep the affected area moisturized.

Caring for Cuticles

Cuticles play an essential role in protecting your nails from bacteria, and taking care of them is crucial to preventing hangnails. Here are some tips to promote healthy cuticles:

Avoid excessive cutting or pushing of the cuticles
Keep cuticles moisturized with a cuticle oil or balm, as dry cuticles are more prone to tearing

Infected Hangnails

Sometimes, hangnails can become infected, which can cause pain and swelling. The affected area may also become red and filled with pus. If you suspect that you have an infected hangnail, do not ignore it. Here are some steps you can take:

Soak the affected finger in warm water with Epsom salt about 3-4 times a day
Apply an antibiotic cream or ointment on the affected area
If the symptoms persist or get worse, seek medical attention immediately

Preventing Hangnail Complications

Ignoring hangnails can lead to severe complications such as nail bed infections and paronychia. Preventing these complications is possible by following these simple tips:

Avoid biting your nails
Wear gloves when doing household chores to reduce trauma or damage to the nails
Stop using nail products that damage your nails such as harsh nail polish removers

Conclusion

Hangnails are a nuisance that can cause a lot of discomfort, but luckily, they can be easily treated. By following the tips and remedies suggested above, you can reduce the chances of getting hangnails and prevent any complications that might arise. Always remember to take care of your hands and nails, as it plays an essential role in keeping them healthy and strong.