Ava Monroe
The hyponychium is the skin just under the free edge of your nail, near your fingertip. It acts as a barrier to protect your nail from harmful substances and germs. Sometimes, the hyponychium can overgrow and become thicker, which can be painful and unsightly. This can be caused by several factors, including long nails, gel or acrylic nails, contact dermatitis, or nail injury. To treat overgrown hyponychium, you can try softening the thickened skin with cuticle oil or antifungal medication. If you're unsure about the cause of the skin growth, it's best to consult a dermatologist.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Hyponychium |
| Location | Under the free edge of the nail, beyond the distal end of the nail bed, near the fingertip |
| Function | Acts as a barrier from germs and debris, preventing them from getting under the nails |
| Composition | Contains white blood cells to prevent infection |
| Overgrowth | Can be caused by wearing long nails, gel or acrylic nails, contact dermatitis, nail injury, or genetic factors |
| Treatment | Cuticle oil or antifungal medication can help soften thickened skin; in case of infection, consult a doctor for antibacterial medication |
| Prevention | Regularly push back the hyponychium with a cuticle pusher after showering |
| Related Conditions | Pterygium inversum unguis (PIU), psoriasis, subungual hyperkeratosis, onycholysis, paronychia |
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What You'll Learn
Causes of skin growth under nails
The hyponychium is the skin just under the free edge of the nail, located beyond the distal end of the nail bed, near the fingertip. It acts as a barrier to prevent germs, debris, and pathogenic bacteria from entering the finger. The skin in this region contains white blood cells to help prevent infection. However, the hyponychium can sometimes overgrow and thicken, causing discomfort and affecting the appearance of the nails.
One common cause of skin overgrowth under the fingernail is Pterygium Inversum Unguis (PIU). PIU occurs when the hyponychium attaches to the underside of the nail as it grows. It is an uncommon condition, but it can be present from birth or acquired later in life. The acquired form is often associated with autoimmune conditions such as lupus or triggered by external factors.
Another possible cause of skin growth under the nails is nail psoriasis, a skin condition where skin cells grow too quickly. In the hyponychium and nail bed, excessive skin cell growth can lead to scaling and buildup, known as subungual hyperkeratosis. If left untreated, the skin can become very thick, resulting in onycholysis, or the separation of the nail plate from the nail bed.
Fungal nail infections can also contribute to skin growth under the nails. The most common form is distal and lateral subungual onychomycosis (DSLO), which starts in the hyponychium and then spreads to the nail plate and bed. Antifungal medication, typically in oral form, is usually recommended for treatment.
Certain nail care habits, such as gel manicures, can also lead to skin overgrowth under the nails. Removing gel manicures or switching to regular manicures can help address this issue. Additionally, using cuticle oil or a cuticle remover can help soften thickened skin and reduce growth.
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Treatment for overgrown hyponychium
An overgrown hyponychium is the thick skin under your nail that can occur due to various reasons. It can be painful and may increase the risk of infection. It is recommended to consult a doctor to determine the best treatment for overgrown hyponychium. Here are some possible treatments for overgrown hyponychium:
Avoid certain manicures
If gel manicures or acrylic nails are contributing to the problem, it is advisable to avoid these procedures and opt for regular manicures instead. This can help reverse the overgrowth of the hyponychium.
Corticosteroids
In cases of nail psoriasis, a doctor may prescribe topical corticosteroids to manage skin thickening. Psoriasis is a skin condition where skin cells grow rapidly, affecting the nails and causing scaling and buildup.
Antifungal medication
If a fungal infection is causing the thick skin under the nail, systemic (oral) antifungal medication can be effective. However, it is important to consider the potential side effects of oral medication.
Cuticle oil and creams
Applying cuticle oil or creams can help soften the thickened skin. It is recommended to apply the oil and gently push the hyponychium back after showering. This can help reduce the growth.
Builder gel
If you prefer gel manicures, consider switching to builder gel, also known as BIAB nails. This product adds a layer to the nail and is considered safer than regular gel manicures. It provides support and can help reduce the overgrown hyponychium.
It is important to note that cutting the hyponychium is not recommended as it may introduce an infection. Instead, consult a doctor or a dermatologist to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
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Trimming nails with overgrown skin
Soak and Soften:
Start by soaking your nails in lukewarm water for a few minutes to soften them. This will help make the trimming process easier and reduce discomfort.
Choose the Right Tools:
Use sharp nail clippers or nail scissors specifically designed for fingernails. Toenail clippers are typically not suitable for fingernails as they are meant for thicker toenails. Ensure your nail clippers are clean and disinfected to prevent any bacterial infections.
Cut Straight Across:
When trimming your nails, cut almost straight across the nail. Avoid cutting them too short, as this can further irritate the overgrown skin. Cutting straight will also help prevent ingrown toenails.
File Smoothly:
Use a nail file or emery board to gently smooth and shape your nails after trimming. Always file in the same direction to avoid weakening your nails. A crystal nail file can be particularly effective for overgrown skin, as its smooth surface is less likely to irritate the sensitive skin.
Treat the Overgrown Skin:
Apply cuticle oil or cuticle remover to soften and treat the overgrown skin. Cuticle oil can help moisturize and reduce the thickness of the skin, making it easier to manage. Gently push back the cuticles with a cuticle pusher, being careful not to cut or damage the skin.
Consult a Dermatologist:
If the overgrown skin persists or becomes painful, discolored, or swollen, consider consulting a dermatologist. They are medical professionals specializing in treating skin, hair, and nail conditions and can provide personalized advice and treatment options.
Remember, it is important to be gentle and patient when dealing with overgrown skin under your nails. Take your time during the trimming process, and avoid forcing the clippers through the thick skin, as it can lead to pain and potential injury.
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Skin growth and gel manicures
Gel manicures can be harmful to your nails and skin in several ways. Firstly, the UV-emitting lamps used to cure gel polish can cause cell damage that may lead to skin cancer. This is due to the UV light causing mutations in DNA repair mechanisms in skin cells, including melanocytes, which can lead to melanoma. Additionally, repeated use of gel manicures can increase the risk of premature skin aging and other skin damage, such as wrinkles and brown spots.
To reduce the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging, it is recommended to take proactive measures. Before getting a gel manicure, apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands. Alternatively, wear fingerless gloves or long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect your hands from UV radiation. It is also important to be mindful of the tools used during gel manicures. Ensure that your manicurist sterilizes and disinfects their tools after each client and avoid letting them push or cut your cuticles, as this can lead to inflammation and infection.
In addition to the potential health risks, gel manicures can also cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking. To maintain nail health, dermatologists recommend moderation in getting gel manicures and taking breaks between them. Consider getting gel manicures for special occasions only and opt for traditional nail polish if you experience recurring nail problems or are allergic to acetone, which is required to remove gel polish.
If you are committed to gel manicures, there are ways to reduce the potential for skin growth under your nails. One option is to switch to builder gel, which adds a layer on top of the nail plate and is considered safer than regular gel manicures. Additionally, you can try using a cuticle remover or cuticle oil to soften and reduce thickened skin. When doing so, gently push back the cuticle instead of cutting the skin.
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Health issues indicated by nails
Your nails can provide clues about your overall health, and certain health issues can be indicated by the appearance of your nails.
Discolouration
Nail discolouration can be caused by a variety of factors, including skin cancer, infection, injury, or product use. Yellow nails, for example, are usually caused by an infection or reaction to nail products. In rare cases, yellow nails can indicate a more serious issue such as psoriasis, endocarditis, or nail melanoma. Nails with a bluish tint can indicate low oxygen in the blood and may suggest a lung problem, such as emphysema, or a heart issue. White nails, or leukonychia, can be caused by trauma, anemia, dietary deficiencies, heart or kidney disease, or poisoning. If the nails are mostly white with darker rims, this could indicate liver problems.
Rippled or pitted nails
If the nail surface is rippled or pitted, it may be an early sign of psoriasis or inflammatory arthritis. Dry, brittle nails that crack or split have been linked to thyroid disease.
Beau's lines
Depressions that run across the fingernail, known as Beau's lines, can be a sign of malnourishment or nutritional deficiencies. They can also be caused by diseases that produce high fevers, such as measles, mumps, and scarlet fever.
Clubbing
Clubbing is when nails thicken and curve around the fingertips, and it can be the result of low oxygen in the blood.
Koilonychia
Koilonychia, or "spooning," is when fingernails have raised ridges and curve outward like spoons.
Terry's nails
When the tip of each nail has a dark band, it is known as Terry's nails, and it is often due to aging, but it can also be a sign of certain health issues.
Mees' lines
Mees' lines are transverse white lines that can indicate arsenic poisoning.
Onycholysis
Onycholysis is when the nail plate separates from the nail bed, causing a white discolouration. This can be due to infection, trauma, or product use.
Pitting
Pitting refers to small depressions or pits in the nail and is common in people with psoriasis or other systemic diseases.
Chronic paronychia
Chronic paronychia causes inflammation, redness, tenderness, and swelling of the skin around the nails. It is usually caused by irritants or allergens but can also be due to fungal infections, other infections, or psoriasis.
While nail issues can be indicative of underlying health conditions, it is important to remember that they often occur due to injury, overexposure to moisture, or nutritional deficiencies.
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Frequently asked questions
The skin under your nails is called the hyponychium. It acts as a barrier to protect your nails from germs and debris. Sometimes, the hyponychium can overgrow and cause thick skin under the nails. This can be caused by wearing long nails for too long, contact dermatitis, or a nail injury. In some cases, it can be genetic or associated with autoimmune conditions such as lupus.
You can try softening the thickened skin by using a cuticle remover or cuticle oil. If you suspect a fungal infection, you may need to take antifungal medication. If you are unsure about the cause, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist.
If your nails are torn or detached, remove any unattached nail remnants with a nail clipper. Clean the nail bed with soap and water, and file down any sharp edges. Cover the nail bed with petroleum jelly or neomycin ointment, and dress it with a clean bandage. Most damaged nails will regrow normally without requiring a visit to the doctor.
Changes in nail colour or appearance can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue. For example, greenish-black nails can indicate a bacterial infection, while yellow nails can be a sign of nail polish use or a rare condition called yellow nail syndrome. Pitting on the nails can be associated with psoriasis or connective tissue disorders. If you notice any unusual changes in your nails, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional.
