Natural, smooth, and well-groomed nails make for a classic, minimalist look—and healthy cuticles are a big part of the story. This thin, delicate strip of skin is critical to the overall health of your nails and deserves its share of attention.
And if you’ve ever wondered, “Why are my cuticles so dry?” or noticed them peeling, you’re not alone. Let’s explore what cuticles are, why they sometimes need a bit of extra care, and finally, the best ways to nourish and protect them.
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What are cuticles?
First, check out the skin surrounding your entire nail—this is known as the eponychium. It’s a living layer of skin that works to protect and defend. Meanwhile, the cuticle is the thin, clear line you see at the bottom of your nail.
Although it’s not living skin, it’s crucial for protecting your nails from bacteria and keeping them hydrated as they grow. Pretend you’re at a concert—think of the cuticle as the gate set up in front of the stage and the eponychium as the security staff making sure everyone has a good, safe time.
If your cuticles are damaged, your nails are more susceptible to infection. Plus, strong, smooth nails look their best when paired with healthy cuticles. Overall, knowing how to take care of them is the key to nourished, protected, beautiful nails.
The dos and don’ts of cuticle care
Don’t: Cut them
While you may be tempted to trim your cuticles at home to make them look neater, it’s usually not a good idea. Cutting your cuticles can irritate and even expose your nails to potential infections.
Instead of cutting, focus on gentle hydration and protection. Gently push them back with a rubber tool as needed, and leave any trimming to the skilled hands of a nail care professional.
Do: Avoid harsh or drying products
Your cuticles are skin. Just like the skin on any other part of your body, it can dry out—sometimes more easily. Common causes of dry cuticles include:
- Cold weather
- Frequent hand washing
- Overuse of hand sanitizers
- Exposure to cleaning products or harsh chemicals
As the area is extremely delicate, dry cuticles can easily lead to peeling or flaking, and cracked cuticles can make your nails more susceptible to infection. Treat your hands (and cuticles) with kindness and care to keep them healthy and hydrated.
Do: Moisturize daily
To keep your nails looking healthy and strong, it’s important to keep the entire area hydrated, including the cuticles. Applying a moisturizing cuticle oil or nail treatment daily can help prevent dryness and peeling.
Hyaluronic acid for nails, too?
You’ve likely used it in your skincare routine. But when it comes to nails, cationic hyaluronic acid is absorbed 17 times more effectively than ”regular” hyaluronic acid. When you opt for a strengthening treatment enriched with this game-changer, here’s what to expect:
✔️ Deeply hydrated nails and cuticles, improving their appearance.
✔️ Increased flexibility, reducing the risk of breakage.
✔️ When combined with other key ingredients like keratin and silicon, you could see stronger, longer nails.
Don’t: Bite or peel them
We’ve all done it on occasion—biting or peeling the skin around our nails. However, this habit not only invites bacteria in but also increases the risk of infection.
Breaking the habit isn’t easy, but a dermatologist can help. They can offer personalized advice and strategies, plus create a holistic approach along with your general practitioner.
Do: Invest in a professional manicure
Pushing your own cuticles back using the wrong methods has the potential to irritate or even inflame them. It’s always a good idea to let a trained nail technician do the job for you. Opt for a salon that offers:
- A clean, hygienic workspace
- Fresh, non-porous tools like files and buffers that prevent bacterial build-up
- Sterilized, professional-quality clippers and metal files
- And, most importantly, gentle treatment of your cuticles, nails, and hands—getting your nails done should never be uncomfortable!
The takeaway? Healthy cuticles mean healthier nails. By keeping them hydrated, avoiding habits that cause dryness or peeling, and going to a professional when needed, you’ll protect your nail health and keep your manicure looking its best.
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Our namesake embodies the spirit of embracing life and all its wonder. As wellness journalists, we explore topics that invigorate the senses and keep curiosity alive. We believe that glowing skin is the result of a healthy body and mind. Weaving beauty with science, we aim to inspire you to live young at every age.
