8 Facts About Hangnails, The Annoying Thing That Comes Whenever It Feels Like Doing So

Last Updated on 2023-02-13 , 6:15 pm

Everyone has this before but some of us don’t know what it is called.

Here’s an image for your reference, because you could be one of the people who often just use the phrase, “You know lah, this white thing beside my nail.”

Okay, now that you know what it is, have you ever wondered why you’ll suddenly see this in your fingers when you’ve done absolutely nothing to your nails?

Well, wonder no more. Here are eight things you should know about hangnails!

1. Hangnails are mainly caused by cold environment
Contrary to popular belief, hangnails are not caused primarily by accidentally cutting the side of your nail (though this could occur). It’s merely skin that is so cold that it dried out and “fell out”. While other factors such as biting your nails could contribute to its cause, the main culprit is usually your over-zealous air-conditioner.

2. It comprises largely dried, dead skin
It’s not part of your nails, if you still have this misconception. (but anyway they do look like softened nails, don’t they?)

3. Keeping your hands moisturized can prevent hangnails
If you are prone to hangnails, just apply lotion or hand crème to your nail beds two to three times per day. Not only will it prevent hangnail, it will keep your nails healthy, too!

4. It is also known as Stepmother’s blessing
The reason and origin are not exactly known, but it just sounds a tad more exciting compared to “hangnail”.

5. Never try to pull it out
You can try to cut it (be as precise as possible), but never attempt to pull it out. You’ll risk injuring yourself or tearing your skin.

6. Drinking more water can prevent hangnail
“Drink more water” is a universal preventive medicine for a reason, and it applies here as well. The science is that it will keep your skin hydrated.

7. Manicure can help prevent hangnail
Girls, rejoice! Now you have one more reason to go for manicure—it has been proven to prevent hangnail due to the moisture of the manicure.

8. It will heal by itself
You should know this by now, since you’ve experienced it countless times. But if you want a faster solution, just soak your hangnail in warm water for five to fifteen minutes. It’ll soften it and heal faster.

Featured Image: pu_kibun / Shutterstock.com