Why is a Paper Cut So Painful?

The skin on our hands and fingers are the most sensitive areas of our body. We use our fingers to feel and touch many things, that's why these areas are densely innervated. Because they have a greater concentration of nerves, we feel more pain when many injured nerves send pain signals to the brain.

Paper cuts are usually shallow and near the surface of the superficial layer of the skin that is densely packed with nerves. A superficial paper cut is usually too shallow to draw enough blood that contains the plasma that assists in clotting that seals the open wound. Hence, the paper cut wound remains open and the injured tissues are exposed. We also tend to rub on the wound unintentionally because it is almost unnoticeable, and these injured nerves will keep sending pain signals to the brain.

Give the affected area a wash with soap and clean water. Dry the wound and apply a little antiseptic ointment on it to prevent infection and kill any bacteria that may be present. Cover the wound with a bandage to protect and seal the wound and it will heal in a few days.

If you handle papers and cardboard folders in the office and tend to get paper cuts very frequently, use finger gloves or finger cots to protect the finger tips.

Dry skins are more prone to cuts and abrasions. Apply hand lotion or moisturiser regularly to both hands to soften and moisturise the skin, especially after washing your hands.