Why Do Hangnails Occur on Fingers and How to Treat Them?

Finger

Frequent occurrence of hangnails on the fingers can be attributed to several factors, including dry skin, frequent hand washing, exposure to harsh chemicals, or nail-biting habits.
To address this issue, consider the following solutions:
1.
Moisturize: Regularly apply a hand cream or cuticle oil to keep the skin hydrated.
2.
Avoid harsh chemicals: Use gloves when handling cleaning products or chemicals that can dry

ka yi lau, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/07/14

Dr. Wu Jingtang reply Surgery

Dear netizen,
Due to the nature of your description, it is somewhat difficult to understand whether you are referring to lesions on the scalp that resemble peeling skin.
However, since skin lesions often require a visual examination for accurate diagnosis, a deficiency in vitamins could be one possible cause.
I recommend consulting a dermatologist to investigate the issue further.
Please understand that speculative answers may not fully satisfy your concerns.
Wishing you health and happiness.
Dr.
Wu Ching-Tang

Reply Date: 2003/07/14

More Info

Hangnails, or the small pieces of skin that tear away from the side of a fingernail, can be a common and annoying issue. They occur for several reasons, and understanding these can help in both prevention and treatment.

Causes of Hangnails
1. Dry Skin: One of the primary causes of hangnails is dry skin. When the skin around the nails becomes dehydrated, it can crack and lead to hangnails. This is particularly common in colder weather or in environments with low humidity.

2. Nail Biting: Individuals who bite their nails or pick at the skin around their nails are more prone to developing hangnails. This habit can damage the skin and lead to tears.

3. Frequent Hand Washing: Regularly washing hands, especially with harsh soaps, can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and hangnails.

4. Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of certain vitamins and minerals, particularly B vitamins, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, can affect skin health and contribute to the formation of hangnails.

5. Injury: Trauma to the nail bed or surrounding skin can also result in hangnails. This can happen during activities that involve manual labor or even during grooming.

Treatment for Hangnails
1. Moisturization: Keeping the skin around your nails well-moisturized is crucial. Use a good quality hand cream or cuticle oil regularly, especially after washing your hands. Look for products containing ingredients like shea butter, vitamin E, or jojoba oil.

2. Avoid Picking: Resist the urge to pick at hangnails. This can lead to further tearing and even infection. Instead, use a pair of sanitized nail scissors or cuticle clippers to carefully trim the hangnail.

3. Gentle Care: When grooming your nails, be gentle. Avoid aggressive pushing back of cuticles, as this can lead to hangnails. Instead, use a soft cuticle pusher and be cautious.

4. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. This can help prevent dryness and the formation of hangnails.

5. Nutritional Support: Ensure you are getting a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. If you suspect a deficiency, consider consulting a healthcare provider for advice on supplements.

6. Protective Gloves: If you frequently wash dishes or use cleaning products, wearing gloves can protect your hands from harsh chemicals and excessive moisture loss.

7. Seek Medical Advice: If hangnails are persistent or become infected (redness, swelling, or pus), it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide treatments such as topical antibiotics or other interventions.

Conclusion
Hangnails can be a minor nuisance, but with proper care and preventive measures, they can be managed effectively. Maintaining good hand hygiene, moisturizing regularly, and avoiding habits that lead to skin damage are key strategies. If hangnails continue to be a problem despite these measures, seeking professional advice is recommended to rule out any underlying conditions.

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