Most of the women that don’t take a proper care of their hands and nails, and those who use harsh products “suffer” from dry cuticles. The skin around the nails gradually becomes rough, coarse and dry and later the skin begins to split, and dry cuticles appear. Some women solve this problem radically – they cut their cuticles, while others prefer to push them back a few times a week.
They are essential as they protect the nails from infections, providing a protective barrier from bacteria and act as a seal between the finger and the nail.
Although the professionals advice not to cut them because they may grow back harder and thicker, many women prefer to cut them as this give them the chance to have good-looking nails for a few days.
How to remove and treat:
- 1. Soak your fingers in lukewarm water and add a few drops of essential oils. Soak your fingers for approximately 10/ 15 minutes to soften your cuticles. This way it will be easier for you to cut them or to push them back.
- 2. Use an orange stick and push them back but make sure they are soft enough.
- 3*. Use a cuticle nipper or small scissors and cut the cuticles very carefully.
Useful:
- Always wear rubber or plastic gloves every time you do the housework to protect your nails and skin.
- Always apply an oilier hand cream in the evening and in the morning to nourish and moisturize your hands and cuticles.
- Choose liquid soaps as they are less drying and contain more moisturizing natural ingredients and have antibacterial properties.
- Never use harsh soaps when washing your hands – they can cause them.
- Never apply nail polish straight after you push back or cut.
- Always remove your nail polish with polish remover before treating.
- You can apply olive oil or almond oil every time you want to soften and moisturize.
- Always sterilize your nail tools with alcohol or with spirits.
- Always visit a manicurist if they are painful or if an infection is present.
- Visit a manicurist once a month to have your dry cuticles removed properly.
- Use a good quality oil and gently rub into your cuticles twice a day.
- Never use metal or sharp instruments.
- The best way to prevent is to keep them moisturized all the time.
- Exfoliate your hands and nails once a week to get rid of them.
- Choose a cream or oil that contains natural oils such as safflower, almond oil, sweet almond or passion flower.
- Always remove all cuticle cream or oil before polishing your nails.