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Treating a Hangnail - Topic Overview

A hangnail is the strip of skin that separates from the side of the cuticle. Simple home treatment can help prevent problems with hangnails.

  • Do not pull at or bite off a hangnail. This may cause the skin to rip.
  • Clip off the hangnail neatly with sharp, clean cuticle scissors.
  • Massage hand lotion or cream into your cuticles 2 to 3 times each day.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: October 12, 2010

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.

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Treating a Hangnail Topics

  • Topic Overview

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