treating hangnails

tricia · Joined: 16 Jan 2006 Posts: 221

I have constant problems with hangnails. I do not bite them I do not have my hands in water or in some chemical, which would cause it. I am applying dikla cream for nails and hands, and my nails have become stronger, but problems with hangnails still persist. What is best for treating hangnails?
Thanks in advnace,
Tricia

laura · Joined: 04 Feb 2006 Posts: 153

Hi Tricia,
First of all, and I am sure you’ve already heard that- do not pick them! When you get hangnails, clip it short- do not tear. Before you clip it off it helps if you soak fingers in water for few minutes. Many people make mistake of clipping hangnails while they are still hard- this way they end up ripping skin even more, and this can cause infection.
What you are doing with dikla cream is perfectly fine- moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Rub cream into flesh surrounding your nails, so the area is soft- take time to rub cream into cuticles.
Some people use olive oil or any other instead of dikla cream, and rub olive oil into cuticles- also good for treating hangnails.
Do not use products that contain sodium hydroxide, which is very often found in products for nails and hangnail- sodium hydroxide tends to destroy skin tissue and can irritate and cause hangnails.
I hope this helps.
Laura