How to Cut a Hangnail

Groom fingernails to prevent hangnails.

Hangnails are irritating and can even be painful. They occur when the cuticles become dry. The cuticles partially come off of the nail area and become hangnails. Once you have a hangnail, it is essential to leave it alone and not mess with it. It gets worse and becomes more painful, if you touch or chew it. Learn the best way to cut a hangnail, so you don't make it worse.

Things You'll Need

• Bowl
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• Nail scissors
• Rubbing alcohol
• Cotton balls
• Antibacterial ointment
• Bandage

Instructions

1. Soak the hangnail in a small bowl of warm water and two tbsp. of olive oil. It's best to soften the hangnail before clipping it. This prevents the possibility of ripping too much of the skin. Let it soak for five minutes.

2. Clean nail scissors with rubbing alcohol. This prevents infection. Apply rubbing alcohol to cotton balls and wipe down the scissors. Let them dry before using them.

3. Trim the hangnail off, using the nail scissors. Cut it just to the bottom of the hangnail. Apply an antibacterial ointment to the area.

4. Apply a bandage to your finger. This allows the ointment to fully penetrate the area. It also keeps the area clean and free of debris.

Tips & Warnings

• Prevent hangnails by moisturizing your cuticles every night.

References

• Mama's Health: How to Prevent Hangnails
• Mother Nature: Hangnail