Many people experience a common yet painful problem where the skin around their fingernails repeatedly tears or peels. This condition is commonly known as a hangnail. Although it may seem minor, frequent hangnails can cause discomfort, infection, and difficulty in daily activities. Understanding the causes, treatment, and prevention of this problem is essential for maintaining healthy hands and nails.
What Is a Hangnail?
A hangnail is a small piece of torn or loose skin that appears near the edges of the fingernails, especially around the cuticle area. Contrary to the name, hangnails are not part of the nail itself but rather the surrounding skin. They can be painful, red, and sometimes bleed. If left untreated, they may become infected.
Common Causes of Repeated Hangnails
- Dry Skin
The most common cause of hangnails is dry skin. When the skin around the nails lacks moisture, it becomes fragile and cracks easily. Cold weather, low humidity, and excessive hand washing can worsen dryness. - Frequent Hand Washing and Sanitizer Use
Using soap and alcohol-based hand sanitizers frequently strips the skin of its natural oils. This leads to dryness and cracking around the nails.
- Nail Biting and Skin Picking
Biting nails or picking at the skin around the nails damages the cuticles and increases the risk of hangnails. This habit also introduces bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. - Improper Nail Care
Cutting cuticles, trimming nails too short, or using unclean nail tools can damage the skin and cause repeated tearing. - Nutritional Deficiencies
Lack of essential nutrients such as biotin (vitamin B7), iron, zinc, and vitamin C can weaken skin and nails, making them prone to damage. - Exposure to Chemicals
Detergents, cleaning products, and harsh chemicals can irritate and dry out the skin around the nails, leading to repeated hangnails. - Medical Conditions
Certain skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or fungal infections can affect the nail area. Diabetes and poor circulation may also slow healing and worsen skin damage.
Symptoms That May Occur
- Pain and tenderness around the nail
- Redness and swelling
- Bleeding
- Cracked or peeling skin
- Signs of infection such as pus, warmth, or increased pain
Treatment for Hangnails
- Proper Trimming
Never pull or bite a hangnail. Instead, carefully trim it using clean, sharp nail clippers or cuticle scissors to prevent further tearing. - Moisturize Regularly
Apply hand cream or cuticle oil several times a day, especially after washing hands. Products containing shea butter, glycerin, coconut oil, or petroleum jelly are very effective. - Warm Water Soak
Soaking fingers in warm water for 10–15 minutes can soften the skin and reduce pain. Adding a few drops of olive oil can provide extra moisture. - Antibiotic Ointment
If the skin is broken or painful, apply an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection and cover it with a bandage. - Avoid Cutting Cuticles
Cuticles act as a protective barrier. Instead of cutting them, gently push them back after softening with oil. - Wear Gloves
Use gloves while cleaning, washing dishes, or working with chemicals to protect your hands from dryness and irritation. - Improve Nutrition
Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Foods like eggs, nuts, leafy greens, fruits, and whole grains support healthy skin and nails. Supplements may be used if advised by a doctor.
Prevention Tips
- Keep hands and cuticles moisturized at all times
- Avoid nail biting and skin picking
- Use gentle soaps and limit sanitizer use when possible
- Trim nails regularly but not too short
- Drink enough water to keep skin hydrated
- Protect hands from cold weather by wearing gloves
When to See a Doctor
If hangnails occur frequently, become infected, or do not heal despite proper care, it is important to consult a doctor or dermatologist. Persistent nail skin problems may indicate an underlying medical or nutritional issue.
Conclusion
Repeated tearing of skin around fingernails is a common but preventable problem. Dryness, poor nail care, nutritional deficiencies, and chemical exposure are the main causes. With proper moisturizing, gentle nail care, and healthy lifestyle habits, hangnails can be treated effectively and prevented. Paying attention to nail health not only improves appearance but also prevents pain and infection.
