Hangnails can be small, but they can be painful and annoying. If you’ve ever had one, you’ve probably wondered the best way to get rid of it without making it worse.
We spoke with Samia Kadri, a Banner Health family nurse practitioner, about what causes hangnails, how to treat them and how to prevent them.
What is a hangnail?
A hangnail isn’t actually part of your nail. It’s a small piece of skin (cuticle) that forms along the edge of your fingernail.
Although it may seem minor, a hangnail can lead to infection if it becomes irritated or exposed to bacteria.
What causes hangnails?
Hangnails usually develop when the skin around your nails becomes dry or damaged.
Common causes include:
- Frequent handwashing
- Dry or cold weather
- Harsh chemicals or cleaning products
- Nail biting or picking
- Cutting nails or cuticles too short
People who suck their thumb, have diabetes or are immunocompromised may also be at higher risk.
Should you pull a hangnail?
It can be tempting to rip or bite off a hangnail, but this can tear the skin and increase your risk of infection.
Instead, treat it carefully to avoid further damage.
How to get rid of a hangnail safely
To treat a hangnail at home:
- Soak your finger in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes
- Apply a gentle oil or ointment (like vitamin E oil or petroleum jelly)
- Carefully trim the hangnail with clean nail clippers or scissors
- Moisturize the area regularly to prevent dryness
If the area bleeds, clean it and apply an antibacterial ointment.
Signs of an infected hangnail
A hangnail can become infected, leading to a condition called paronychia.
“Paronychia is inflammation that involves the tissue on the side or at the base of the fingernail,” Kadri said.
Watch for:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pain or tenderness
- Warmth
- Pus or drainage
If infection spreads, you may notice redness moving up the finger (a sign of cellulitis).
When should you see a doctor?
You should seek care if:
- The hangnail produces pus
- You develop an abscess
- Symptoms worsen or don’t improve within a few days
- Redness spreads beyond the nail area
Your provider may need to drain the infection or prescribe antibiotics.
How to prevent hangnails
You can reduce your risk by keeping your hands and cuticles healthy:
- Moisturize your hands and cuticles daily
- Avoid biting or picking at your nails
- Don’t cut your cuticles
- Wear gloves when cleaning or in cold weather
- Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet
Frequently asked questions about hangnails
What causes hangnails?
They are usually caused by dry or damaged skin around the nails.
Are hangnails dangerous?
Most are harmless, but they can become infected if not treated properly.
How long does a hangnail take to heal?
Most heal within a few days with proper care.
Can hangnails lead to infection?
Yes, especially if the skin is torn or exposed to bacteria.
The bottom line
Hangnails are common and usually easy to treat at home, but proper care is important to prevent infection. Keeping your hands moisturized and avoiding picking or biting your nails can go a long way in preventing them.
If a hangnail becomes painful, swollen or infected, it’s best to see a health care provider.
