6 ways to take care of the cuticles on your nails

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The cuticle is a barrier that protects the foundation from fungi and various bacteria. This cuticle plays an important role in nail health, but we often overlook its care. To have a healthy and beautiful hand, we need to pay attention to this cuticle.

1. What is the cuticle on the nail?

The cuticle is a transparent layer of skin that lies along the bottom edge of a finger or toe. This area is called the nail bed. The function of the cuticle is to protect new nails from bacteria as they grow from the base of the nail. The area around the epidermis is quite fragile. It can become dry, damaged, and infected. It is important to take care of the entire nail area and keep it clean to keep your nails healthy.
Cuticle is the transparent layer of skin on and around the nail. The lunula is the half-moon shape seen at the base of the fingernails. Lunula is located above the epidermis.

2. 6 ways to take care of your cuticles

2.1. Don't try to remove your cuticles. Dermatologists advise that there is no good reason to remove the cuticle. If you cut the epidermis, that area of ​​skin will become sensitive and easily affected by external agents. The bacteria will also easily get in and cause an infection. Bacterial infection in this area can interfere with nail growth. In addition, cuticle removal can also lead to other nail problems, such as ridges, white spots or white lines.
2.2 Use specialized tools to push the cuticles If you still want to cut the cuticles in your nails, it is important that you soften them first. You can do this by soaking your nails in warm water. Showering can also help soften them. If your cuticles are dry, apply moisturizer. Next, using the cuticle pusher, carefully push the cuticle along the nail bed. Trim excess skin and nails but do not cut the entire cuticle. Cuticle pushers are made from a variety of materials. You can buy them at most cosmetic stores.
2.3 Moisturizing Although the cuticles don't look like the rest of the skin on the hands, they are made up mostly of skin, so it's essential to keep them moisturized. When the cuticles are dry, they crack and peel just like skin. A good moisturizer for the epidermis is important, just as it is for dry skin. Any skin moisturizer will work well for the epidermis. When you apply it to your hands and have leftovers, rub into the cuticles.
Most dermatologists recommend using thick moisturizing products, such as ointments or creams for best results. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends petroleum jelly (Vaseline) as a cuticle care routine. Ointments are difficult to apply during the day because they are sticky, so you should apply them at night. Lotions can be used throughout the day because they are less greasy, but are less moisturizing than creams and ointments. Whichever method you choose, be sure to moisten your hands regularly.

2.4 Avoiding Poor Manicurists Many people see a dermatologist when they develop red, painful spots around their nails or cuticles due to a skin infection. Usually, the patient has an infection due to the manicurist's excessive manipulation, the manifestation of the infection is redness and pain. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat this condition. Before getting a manicure, tell your manicurist that you just want your cuticles to be pushed back gently. If they push the cuticle too hard, ask them to stop immediately.
2.5 Stay away from agents that can dry cuticles Hands, nails and cuticles can become dry from frequent dishwashing and from acetone nail polish removers. So experts recommend wearing gloves when washing dishes and using an acetone-free nail polish remover. Wearing gloves will help trap the oil on your cuticles and nails, and protect them from the drying effects of water.
2.6 Get in the habit of putting your hands in your mouth Your mouth is a dirty area and saliva is an enzyme that breaks down skin. You can get an infection if the cuticle breaks. So, if you have a habit of biting your nails or gnawing your cuticles, get rid of that habit right away for a healthier pair of hands.
Cuticle helps protect your nail area from infection. Therefore, taking care of the cuticle in the nail is important for health. Remember to stay away from nail salons that are unsanitary and with poor workmanship. Contact your dermatologist right away if you notice signs or symptoms of a nail infection.
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Reference sources: webmd.com, healthline.com