Noah Sinclair
The cuticle is a thin layer of dead tissue that forms a seal between the nail plate and the eponychium, which is where your skin ends. While cutting the cuticle is a common practice, it is not recommended as it can lead to painful infections. Instead, it is advised to gently push back the cuticles with a wooden orange stick and only trim the dead excess skin, also known as hangnails. Proper cuticle care involves regular moisturization with products such as ointments, creams, or cuticle oils, which help maintain nail health and prevent infections.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What is a cuticle? | The cuticle is a thin layer of dead tissue that forms a seal between the nail plate and eponychium to prevent pathogens from infecting the matrix area. |
| Should cuticles be cut? | No, cutting can make them hard and more likely to fracture. Cuticles should be pushed back gently with a wooden orange stick. |
| How to push back cuticles? | First, trim and file your nails. Then, moisten the cuticle area with a cuticle remover. Using a metal pusher, carefully push the cuticle toward the back end of your nail. Wash the cuticle remover off with soap and water, then cut whatever is hanging. |
| How to care for cuticles? | Moisturize cuticles daily with ointments, creams, petroleum jelly, or cuticle oil. Wear gloves when washing dishes or clothes to protect from the drying effects of water. |
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What You'll Learn
Do not cut your cuticles
The thin band of skin at the base of your nail bed, commonly referred to as the cuticle, is not actually the cuticle. This band of skin is called the "proximal fold of the eponychium" or "nail fold". The cuticle is a thin layer of dead tissue that forms a seal between the nail plate and the eponychium, preventing pathogens from infecting the matrix area.
Cutting the cuticle can be harmful to your nails and body. The cuticle is there to protect your nails from bacteria and infection. When this skin is removed, your nail is left exposed and vulnerable to bacteria and fungus. This can lead to infections and ultimately damage to the nail. Live skin should not be cut, and improper cutting can allow bacteria to enter the body. Cutting the cuticle can also cause it to grow back thicker and more ragged, leading to an endless cuticle cycle of cutting and trimming.
Instead of cutting, it is recommended to gently push back the cuticle with a wooden orange stick or your fingernail. This can be done after a shower when the skin is soft, or after soaking your hands in warm water. You can also use cuticle remover to soften the cuticle before pushing it back. Keeping the cuticles hydrated with a thick moisturising product, such as ointments, creams, or petroleum jelly, can also help to maintain healthy cuticles.
It is important to note that cutting cuticles is illegal in most states. If you choose to cut your cuticles, ensure that you are doing so safely and properly sanitising any tools used to prevent infections.
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Use a wooden orange stick to push them back
Wooden orange sticks are a gentle and versatile tool for pushing back cuticles. They are soft and less abrasive than metal tools, making them ideal for cuticles and nails. These dual-ended sticks have one pointed end and one beveled or slanted end.
To begin, rest your hand on a flat, sturdy surface to steady yourself and gain better control over the stick. Then, holding the stick at an angle, carefully push the cuticle with the beveled end, working your way into the corner and up the sides of your nail. Use circular motions as you move across the nail for better control. Be careful not to push too hard or scrape your nails with the stick.
The pointed end of the orange stick is useful for cleaning dirt and debris from under your nails. It can also be used for detailed nail art, applying small decorations, or polish with precision.
For those with sensitive skin, it is recommended to wrap the tip of the orange stick in cotton before use.
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Moisturise your cuticles daily
Moisturising your cuticles daily is an important step in maintaining nail health. Cuticles are a layer of clear skin at the base of your nail plate. They act as a protective barrier for your nails, preventing bacteria from entering your nail beds and causing infection. Cuticles can become dry, cracked, and flaky, especially during the colder months when there is a lack of moisture in the air and exposure to dry indoor heat. Therefore, it is essential to keep them moisturised.
You can start by exfoliating your cuticles regularly to prevent overgrowth. You can purchase an exfoliator or make your own at home by mixing oil and sugar with a small bowl of water. Massage the scrub into your cuticles in a circular motion for about 30 seconds per finger, then rinse and dry your hands. After exfoliating, apply a thick layer of cuticle moisturiser or cream. You can also use ointments, such as petroleum jelly, which is recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology. However, these may not be practical for daily use as they can be messy and greasy. Instead, you can opt for lotions throughout the day, ensuring your hands and cuticles remain moisturised.
If you prefer a more intensive moisturising treatment, you can apply a thick layer of cream to your hands and cuticles before bed, then cover them with 100% cotton gloves. This will protect your sheets and keep your hands moisturised overnight. Additionally, you can use natural oils such as argan oil, coconut oil, almond oil, or sunflower oil to moisturise your cuticles. These oils can be applied directly to the cuticles or mixed with other ingredients like biotin and vitamin E to create a nourishing salve.
It is important to note that you should never cut, nip, or trim your cuticles. Doing so can damage them, causing detachment from the nail and leading to nail infections and nail loss. Instead, gently push back your cuticles with a wooden orange stick if you want to make your nails appear longer.
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Only trim dead excess skin (hangnails)
When trimming your nail cuticles, it is important to only trim dead excess skin, also known as hangnails. Hangnails are pieces of torn or split skin that are often found in the crease beside your nail or below the cuticle. They can be painful and, if left unattended, can lead to an increased risk of infection.
Hangnails are formed from improper nail growth and should not be pulled or cut off with bare hands as this can open up the eponychium, causing pain and bleeding. Instead, use a cuticle nipper or trimmer to carefully snip away the dead skin. Angle the trimmers as close as possible to the base of the torn skin and make a smooth cut.
It is important to only trim the translucent, dead skin and not to cut the skin along the bottom of your nail, also known as the eponychium. Cutting the eponychium can lead to infection and peeling skin.
After trimming, be sure to wash your hands with warm soapy water to remove any residue from cuticle oil or small pieces of skin.
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Wear gloves when washing dishes
To maintain well-groomed cuticles, it is essential to keep your hands and nails moisturized and protected. Wearing gloves while washing dishes is a simple yet effective way to achieve this. The water and soap used in dishwashing can dry out your hands, nails, and cuticles, making them brittle and prone to breakage. Gloves act as a protective barrier, shielding your hands from the drying effects of water and harsh detergents.
When selecting gloves for dishwashing, opt for those made from rubber, vinyl, or latex-free materials, especially if you have sensitive skin. Look for gloves with a soft cotton or fabric lining, as these will be gentle on your skin. Some gloves even feature moisture-wicking foam or long sleeves to prevent water from seeping in, ensuring your hands stay dry.
By wearing gloves, you not only protect your hands and nails but also preserve your manicure. The gloves prevent your nail polish from chipping and losing its shine due to exposure to water and soap. If you wish to maintain your manicure for an extended period, investing in a good pair of dishwashing gloves is a wise decision.
Additionally, consider applying a lubricant or cuticle oil before donning the gloves. This helps lock in moisture and further safeguards your cuticles from the drying effects of dishwashing. Remember to choose an acetone-free nail polish remover, as acetone can also contribute to drying out your nails and cuticles.
By incorporating these simple steps into your dishwashing routine, you can effectively protect your cuticles and maintain the health and appearance of your hands and nails. So, the next time you tackle the dishes, don't forget to reach for a pair of gloves!
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Frequently asked questions
No, you should not cut your nail cuticles. The cuticle is a thin layer of dead tissue that forms a seal between the nail plate and eponychium to prevent pathogens from infecting the matrix area. Cutting the cuticle can make it harder and more likely to fracture or split off. Instead, you should gently push back your cuticles with a wooden orange stick.
You should only trim the dead excess skin (hangnails) and nothing further. Be careful not to cut the skin along the bottom of your nail.
To keep your cuticles healthy, you should moisturize them every day. You can use moisturizing lotion, petroleum jelly, or your favourite oil. Dermatologists recommend thick moisturizing products, such as ointments or creams, for the best results.
