We often take for granted the small details of our everyday beauty care, like taking care of our nails and cuticles. The cuticle is often an overlooked part of our beauty routine, but its health is essential for keeping both our nails and the surrounding skin healthy. With a few simple tips and products, cuticle care can be made easy and can ensure that our nails and cuticles stay healthy and looking great.
1. Nourish and Nurture your Cuticles
Cuticles are essential in the well-being of your nails. Skin around the nails can vary in shape, texture and color. It is essential to improve their condition in order to maintain overall nail health.Use a weekly cuticle softening treatment. Keep your cuticles hydrated and healthy by applying a cuticle conditioning oil or cream at least once a week. This will help to nourish and soothe any rough cuticles, trapping in essential moisture.Push cuticles back carefully. Pushing back cuticles can be a little tricky. Make sure to use a cuticle pusher or specific tool that can gently press the cuticles back.Be sure to trim excess hangnails. It’s important to check and trim any hangnails that may be present. If not trimmed, they can lead to further tears, splitting and even infection.
2. A Guide to Cuticle Care
The Basics of Cuticle Care
Cuticles are an important part of overall nail health. They protect the nail bed from bacteria, trauma and infection. Since cuticles are delicate and can easily be torn or damaged, they require proper care to keep them healthy and looking their best. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Gently push your cuticles back regularly with a cuticle pusher to keep them from growing inwards on the nail plate.
- Use a cuticle oil or cream to nourish your cuticles and make them more pliable.
- To remove dead skin around the nail, gently use a soft-bristled nail brush.
Keeping Your Cuticles Healthier
To further protect and keep your cuticles looking good, some extra steps can be taken. Start with clean hands and nails, it’s important to remove any dirt or oil buildup around the nail plate. You can also try soaking your fingers in warm water with mild hand soap and a moisturizer. To exfoliate and moisturize the nail area, you can also use a sugar scrub. Massaging cuticle oil into your nails can also help.
Treat Your Cuticles with Care
As with any part of the body, the cuticles should be handled with care. When using a nail brush or cuticle pusher, take extra precautions and never be too rough. Instead, use gentle circular motions. Avoid picking or cutting cuticles – never remove the live skin.
A Final Touch of Shine
Once you’ve given your cuticles the care and nurture they deserve, finish off with a layer of clear nail polish. Not only do nails look prettier when shiny, but they’re also protected by the clear polish. As a bonus, the clear polish can also help your cuticles stay together.
3. Basic Tips for Keeping Those Cuticles Healthy
Moisturize Regularly
Cuticles take a beating over time, and the best remedy for this is regular moisturization. While oils are a popular solution, many experts recommend lotions as a better option. Lotions help protect the cuticle from external damage and can help stimulate cell regeneration. Additionally, they often contain vitamins and minerals which are beneficial for overall nail health. Try massaging a small knuckle of lotion into each cuticle every night and after every shower.
Limit Time in Water
Long baths and extended hand-washing can dry out your hands and nails, and damage the cuticles in the process. It may not be possible to limit time in the water if you work in a profession that requires it, but you can take steps to reduce the damage to your hands. Wear rubber gloves if you plan to be in the water for extended periods, and make sure to thoroughly moisturize afterwards.
Trim the Cuticles Gently
One way to keep cuticles healthy is to gently trim them as needed. Doing so helps eliminate built-up dead skin cells, dirt, and bacteria, which will help improve the appearance of your nails. Be sure to use a clean pair of scissors trimming, and maintain a slight angle when gripping the scissors so you don’t accidentally cut yourself.
Be Mindful of Manicures
Manicures can help keep your nails looking beautiful, but it’s important to be mindful of which products and services you choose. Ethically-sourced nail polishes are best, and certified nail technicians should avoid using tools that are too agressive for delicate cuticles. Opt for natural, nourishing skin treatments after your manicures, such as paraffin or exfoliating scrubs.
4. Put Your Best Nail Forward!
Have the best looking nails with these tips!
1. Keep your nails at a reasonable length. Nothing too long where it interferes with your everyday activities but not too short either. Medium length nails are your best bet.
2. Keep up with regular maintenance such as nail trimming, filing and buffing. If you want healthy looking nails, regular maintenance is key.
3. Make sure to use cuticle oil and moisturiser on your nails once or twice a week. This will help keep your nails hydrated and free from bacteria.
4. Brighten up your look with some colour! Experiment with different colours from bold shades to pastel tones or even a bit of glitter. Nail art is a fun way to show off your sense of style.
Taking care of your cuticles is essential for healthy nails and skin. As with many aspects of your health, it pays to be diligent. Just a few simple steps will go a long way towards maintaining this crucial part of your body. Your nails will thank you for it!
