A hangnail is a small piece of skin that becomes detached from the side of a fingernail or toenail. It often occurs when the skin around the nail is dry or damaged, leading to a painful and sometimes irritating condition. Hangnails can be caused by various factors, including biting nails, excessive hand washing, or exposure to harsh chemicals. To treat a hangnail, it is important to avoid pulling or tearing it, as this can lead to infection. Keeping the hands moisturized and using nail clippers to trim the hangnail carefully can help prevent further issues. If an infection occurs, seeking medical advice may be necessary.