4 Natural Remedies For Hangnails

When nails grow into the skin or infections develop, it is common to develop hangnails. This is a cosmetic problem characterized by inflammation of the skin around the nails, both on the hands and feet. Do you know these natural remedies for hangnails?

While the treatment for this condition involves trimming the nails properly and wearing appropriate shoes, some natural remedies can speed up hangnail recovery. Regular application of these remedies promotes the recovery of the affected skin and also reduces the risk of infections. Discover them below!

4 Natural Remedies For Hangnails

Most hangnails go away on their own without treatment. In fact, they rarely cause complications such as severe pain or suppuration. However, they often cause inflammation, redness and sensitivity. Fortunately, you can alleviate these discomforts with simple natural remedies. Are you interested in trying them out?

1. Sea salt and lemon

The combination of sea salt and lemon is one of the best natural remedies for hangnails for several reasons. First, both ingredients are antimicrobial and antifungal, meaning they help prevent nail and skin infections.

On the other hand, they also act as exfoliants, making it easier to remove dead skin cells.

The combination of these two products therefore provides an antiseptic and soothing remedy, with the ability to remove the dead skin that causes a hangnail. It is very easy to make.

Ingredients

• 2 lemons
• 1 tablespoon sea salt (15 g)

Preparation

• First squeeze the juice from the lemons and put it in a bowl.
• Then add the tablespoon of sea salt and mix well.

Application

• Apply the remedy to the hangnail and leave it on for 20 minutes.
• Keep in mind that lemon can cause a little discomfort. Don’t worry though, as this feeling will disappear after a few minutes.

• Repeat applying this natural hangnail remedy every day until the problem is gone.

2. Vicks VapoRub®

This popular ointment with menthol can help reduce hangnails thanks to its moisturizing and antiseptic effects. Applying it to the affected area will relieve the pain and make your skin softer. Therefore, it even supports the extraction of ingrown nails.

Application

• To start, clean the surface of the hangnail with warm, soapy water.
• Then dry the skin well and cover the area with some Vicks VapoRub®.
• Leave on without rinsing and then repeat the treatment every night before going to bed.

3. Aloe vera gel and tea tree essential oil

This interesting natural remedy for hangnails combines the moisturizing and antimicrobial properties of aloe vera gel with the powerful antiseptic action of tea tree essential oil. For this reason, regular use promotes the relief of inflammation and reduces the risk of infection.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel (40 g)
• 4 drops of tea tree essential oil

Preparation

• First, extract a few tablespoons of aloe vera gel from a leaf.
• Then combine this gel in a bowl with the essential oil of tea tree.

Application

• Rub the remedy on the hangnails twice a day.

4. Oregano Essential Oil

Another natural hangnail remedy that can help prevent infection is oregano essential oil. Due to its antibacterial and antiseptic effects, this oil protects the affected area from the growth of pathogenic bacteria. In addition, the analgesic effect provides relief in case of pain.

Ingredients

• 5 drops of oregano essential oil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)

Preparation

• First, combine the essential oil of oregano with a tablespoon of olive oil. Keep in mind that you should never use essential oil undiluted, as it can be harsh on the skin.

• If you don’t have a base oil on hand, mix the oil with warm water.

Application

• Thoroughly cleanse the affected area and then gently massage the remedy into your skin.
• Then leave it on without rinsing and repeat this application twice a day.
• Continue the treatment until your hangnail disappears.

Additional Tips On These Natural Remedies For Hangnails

• Use a moisturizing product on the cuticles every day and clip your toenails regularly, avoiding edges.
• Wear both shoes and socks made of materials that don’t increase sweating. Sometimes hangnails and infections are the result of bacterial growth from fluid buildup in the shoes.

• Pay close attention to the shoes you wear every day if you have hangnails.
• Clean your nails regularly.
• Check your nails every day for signs of trouble. Catching hangnails early can often prevent the onset of pain and swelling.
• Consult your doctor in case of any pus, bleeding or other signs of infection.

Have you tried these natural remedies for hangnails? Don’t hesitate to use them the next time you notice this problem to reduce your symptoms!