Each fingernail and toenail has a cuticle, or area of slightly hardened skin, around it. A hangnail is a small section of this hardened skin that has separated from the rest of the cuticle. The section of separated skin is usually long or triangular in shape.

A principal reason people get these skin tags is because the cuticles become overly dry. Without proper moisture, the skin is more susceptible to cracks and splits. Nail biting is another frequent cause. The teeth put pressure on and tear the skin around the nails, causing separations to occur.

Even though the people know it’s not good for them in the long run, it feels like this huge release, and that momentary release can feel very good, so people keep doing it."

Another reason people pick is that the thing being picked—whether it’s a hangnail, a scab, a pimple, or whatever else—actually hurts. Sometimes a lot. And picking it seems like a solution to that problem.   

When people have anxiety, they often feel like they need to do something to relieve that anxiety—and picking scabs may be one of those things.

A small hangnail opens a person up for infection. One that looks very red or is filled with pus is most likely infected. When the infection is very painful or is associated with a fever and a lot of swelling, a visit to a doctor might be needed. Without treatment, the infection could spread underneath the nail and damage it.

So, Break this "Bad Habit"

The first step to remove a hangnail is to disinfect a pair of cuticle scissors in alcohol to reduce the chance of accidental infection. After this is complete, soaking the afflicted finger in warm water softens the cuticle and prevents additional tears from occurring during the removal process. Cutting off the tag of skin is the third step. Doctors suggest applying an antibacterial lotion and putting on a bandage once the removal is done.

 The best thing to do is to replace the habit with another habit. (If you train yourself to do something else instead of picking, it will be easier to stop doing it than if you just order yourself to quit)