Yes, you can cut your nails short, but there are limitations.
According to the provided reference, you can trim your nails so they no longer have any visible lunula (the white, crescent-shaped area at the base of your nail) without causing problems.
However, cutting your nails shorter than that can become difficult and painful. Cutting too short can accidentally expose the hyponychium, which is the skin under your fingernail. When this happens, touching things with your fingers becomes painful.
Key Points to Consider:
- Lunula: It is generally safe to trim off all of the lunula.
- Hyponychium: Avoid cutting so short that you expose the skin underneath your nail, the hyponychium.
- Pain: Overly short nails can be painful when touched or when doing everyday tasks.
Practical Tips for Nail Trimming
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Trim your nails gradually. | Cut too much nail off at once. |
| Use sharp and clean nail clippers. | Use dull or dirty clippers. |
| Leave a small amount of white nail. | Cut the nail down to or below the hyponychium. |
| Pay attention to how your nail feels. | Ignore pain or discomfort during trimming. |
When to See a Professional
While minor pain can resolve itself, consult a doctor if you experience:
- Severe pain.
- Signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus).
- Nail detachment.
