Why does the skin around the nail come off? Know its cause and treatment from an expert
Many people have the problem of skin coming off around the nails, which causes a lot of trouble while removing it. If the skin around your nails is coming off, then pay attention to some things.
With the changing weather, many problems also start to surround us. Many people also face skin related problems with the changing weather. One of these problems can cause peeling of the skin around the fingers (nails). Our hands are exposed to many chemicals every day, due to which the skin around the nails peels off or starts peeling off. This causes many problems. As bad as it looks, the pain is even worse. Especially when it is removed.
Many people pull it with the help of hands or mouth, which causes bleeding and pain. If the skin near your nails is peeling, then the reason for this can be your dry skin, weather, calcium deficiency, vitamin deficiency and some chemical products. Bacteria can enter your skin through this cracked skin and cause problems for you. This can cause diseases, so it is very important to take care of the skin of your hands (how to prevent nail peeling).
What do experts say
Dr. Ankit Bansal, Consultant Internal Medicine and Infection Disease Expert, Shri Balaji Action Medical Institute, Delhi, explains that, “Peeling of nail skin is a common problem which can be caused due to lack of calcium and vitamins in the body as well as many other reasons.
For example, not taking proper care of nails, dryness of skin also causes peeling of the skin of the nails, injury to the nail can also cause this problem (how to prevent nail peeling). Apart from this, skin allergy or lack of vitamins and calcium also causes peeling of the skin of the nails.
How to take care? (how to stop peeling nails)
Dr Ankit Bansal further says, “It is very important to take care of your nails, always keep them clean and dry, also use moisturizer, it is very important to treat nails if they get injured. Keep the injury clean and dry and consult a doctor in case of injury. In case of allergy, you can use antihistamines after consulting the doctor or the doctor may suggest some other remedies. A balanced diet of vitamins and calcium should be taken to meet the deficiency.
Milk, yogurt, green vegetables, fruits and nuts are rich in vitamins and calcium. Apart from this, vitamins and calcium tablets can also be taken. Regular exercise and adequate sleep can also help overcome calcium deficiency. Also, sitting in the sun also removes calcium deficiency, because sunlight contains vitamin D, which helps in the formation of calcium. Therefore, do not let there be a deficiency of vitamins and calcium in the body. Apart from this, you must consult a doctor regarding your problem (how to prevent nail peeling).
Reasons why your nails are peeling
Dr. Ankit Bansal says that there can be many reasons for the skin around the nail to peel or come off. One of the main reasons for this can be a deficiency of vitamins and calcium, as well as there are other reasons for this.
1. The habit of biting nails
Many people have the habit of biting nails, due to which their cuticles, skin and nails get damaged and they face the problem of skin peeling. This habit can also spread infection in your nails and the skin around them. So if you have a habit of biting nails, then try to get rid of it. Initially, it causes problems in doing so, but gradually you can get relief.
2. Due to lack of nutrition
Lack of calcium and vitamins is also a major reason for peeling of skin around the nails, due to this our skin becomes dry. When there is lack of moisture in the skin, then you have to face this problem.
3. Causes of dry skin
Frequently washing hands, drinking less water, and lack of hydration in the body also causes the skin of the hands to become dry and this is the reason why the skin of the nails starts peeling.
4. Skin infection
Psoriasis and eczema are serious skin problems. These are caused by bacterial or fungal infections, due to which the skin around the cuticle also gets infected and one has to face problems like peeling of the skin around the nails. You should consult a good dermatologist for skin infections like psoriasis and eczema.
5. Use of harsh chemicals
People with sensitive skin may face many problems due to the use of products like soap, handwash, shampoo and detergent. Such as skin irritation and peeling of the skin near the nails. Therefore, take care of your skin while using the products.
How to prevent nail peeling
1. Avoid washing your hands frequently
If you have a habit of washing your hands frequently and the skin around your nails is peeling off, then you should change this habit or use a moisturizer or hand cream after washing your hands.
2. Reduce the use of hot water
If your skin is sensitive then you should take special care. Avoid using very hot water and do not use hot water to wash hands repeatedly. This can cause dryness in the skin.
3. Use of moisturizer
If your hands are very dry and the skin around the nails peels off, then try to keep your hands hydrated. For this, use moisturizer or you can also use hand cream. This can give you relief from this problem.
4. Use of cream or aloe vera
If the skin around your nails is peeling off, you can use milk cream or aloe vera gel on your hands as it contains good hydrating agents.
5. Drink enough water
Water provides relief from many problems. It keeps the body hydrated. In this way, the skin of the hands also remains healthy, due to which the skin around the nails also remains healthy.
6. Consume fruits
Eat fruits in sufficient quantity. This will help in keeping your skin hydrated and supple. For this, use fruits rich in iron, vitamin B12 and biotin.
7. Do not bite nails
If you have a habit of biting nails, then quit it as soon as possible, this will give you relief from the problem of peeling of skin around the nails.
8. Use of nail polish or remover
Avoid using nail polish remover as it dries out the skin around the nail, causing the skin to peel off.
FAQs: Peeling Skin Around Nails
1. Why is the skin around my nails peeling?
The skin around your nails may peel due to several reasons, including:
- Vitamin and calcium deficiency
- Dry skin caused by dehydration or frequent hand washing
- Harsh chemicals in soaps, detergents, and nail polish removers
- Skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis
- Habitual nail biting or picking at cuticles
If the problem persists, consult a dermatologist to rule out infections or other underlying causes.
2. Is peeling skin around nails a sign of vitamin deficiency?
Yes, vitamin deficiency can cause peeling skin around the nails.
Deficiencies in Vitamin B12, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Biotin are common culprits.
- Lack of calcium can make the skin dry and flaky.
- Poor nutrition weakens both nails and surrounding skin.
Tip: Include milk, yogurt, green vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds in your diet to improve skin and nail health.
3. Can dehydration cause the skin around nails to peel?
Yes, dehydration is a major cause of peeling skin.
When your body lacks enough water:
- The skin becomes dry and brittle, especially around nails.
- Cracks form, increasing the risk of infection and irritation.
Solution: Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily and eat water-rich foods like cucumber and watermelon to keep the skin hydrated.
4. What skin conditions can cause peeling around the nails?
Certain skin conditions can lead to peeling around the nails:
- Eczema: Causes red, itchy, and peeling skin.
- Psoriasis: Results in scaly patches around the nails and cuticles.
- Fungal or bacterial infections: Lead to swelling, redness, and peeling skin.
If you notice severe itching, pus, or pain, visit a dermatologist immediately
5. Why does biting nails cause skin to peel?
Biting nails damages both the nail bed and cuticles, leading to:
- Peeling skin
- Increased risk of bacterial infections
- Slower nail growth
- Pain and bleeding around the nails
Pro Tip: Use bitter-tasting nail polish or keep nails trimmed to break this habit.
6. How can I stop the skin around my nails from peeling?
Follow these steps to prevent peeling skin around nails:
- Moisturize regularly with a hand cream or cuticle oil.
- Avoid harsh chemicals like detergents or strong soaps.
- Wear gloves while cleaning or washing dishes.
- Don’t bite or pick at your nails.
- Stay hydrated by drinking enough water.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and calcium.
- Use aloe vera or milk cream to soothe and hydrate the skin.
7. How can I treat peeling skin around nails at home?
You can treat mild peeling with home remedies:
- Apply aloe vera gel or coconut oil to moisturize dry skin.
- Soak hands in lukewarm water mixed with honey for 10 minutes daily.
- Use vitamin E oil to nourish the skin and cuticles.
- Drink plenty of water and eat vitamin-rich foods like oranges and leafy greens.
8. Can using nail polish remover cause peeling?
Yes, frequent use of acetone-based nail polish removers can dry out the skin and nails, leading to peeling.
- Switch to a non-acetone remover for gentler care.
- Always moisturize after removing nail polish to prevent dryness.
9. When should I see a doctor about peeling skin around my nails?
Consult a dermatologist if you experience:
- Severe pain or swelling
- Redness, pus, or signs of infection
- Peeling that doesn’t improve with home care
- Associated symptoms like itchy rashes or bleeding
Early treatment can prevent complications like fungal infections or chronic eczema.
10. What foods help prevent peeling skin around nails?
Include these nutrient-rich foods in your diet for healthy nails and skin:
- Vitamin B12: Eggs, milk, fish
- Vitamin D: Sunlight, fortified dairy products
- Vitamin C: Oranges, strawberries, kiwi
- Calcium: Green leafy vegetables, almonds, yogurt
- Biotin: Nuts, seeds, whole grains
A balanced diet strengthens nails and prevents dryness and peeling.
READ ALSO: Growing Long Nails? Read This First: 5 Risks & Essential Care Tips
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