Sure, having your nail look sleek and clean is a nice feeling, but to achieve that look, your manicurist will likely use a cuticle nipper to cut your cuticles. But the cuticles act as a barrier between the root of the nails, which are particularly sensitive, and the outside world. Cutting off this skin exposes more of the nail surface, which can be dangerous.
Effects of cutting cuticles
1. RISK OF INFECTION
As mentioned, cuticles are a barrier between the nail bed and anything your fingers can touch. When you cut this protective skin, your nails become more susceptible to infection. Every time you trim or cut your cuticles, you expose the nail bed, making it easier for dirt and bacteria to enter your body and cause infection. And considering that your fingers and nails touch a lot of things during the day, the risk is relatively high.
How to properly care for cuticles on the nails
2. DAMAGE TO THE NAILS
Cutting cuticles can also damage or injure the nail bed. Although nail bed damage is usually not too severe, it can deform your nails or cause your nails to crack and break.
Should you be pushing your cuticles back instead?
Instead of completely cutting or trimming the cuticles, some people prefer to push them back using a flat-edged tool. But you should actually avoid this practice as well. Although not as damaging as cutting, pushing the cuticles back still leaves the nail bed at risk of infection. The appearance of pushed back or trimmed cuticles may be attractive, but it is best to leave them as they are.
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How to take care of our cuticles?
1. MOISTURIZE
Moisturizing is one way to take care of your nails and help repair damaged cuticles. You can rub any standard hand lotion into your nails and cuticles to help promote healthy skin. There are also ointments and lotions for severe cuticle damage that you can try.
2. USE CLEAN TOOLS
Always disinfect your nail tools before use to kill germs and prevent infections. You should clean your personal tools at least once a month with alcohol. Clean nail clippers and clippers thoroughly, then rinse with hot water.
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3. AVOID ARTIFICIAL NAILS
You may love the look of long nails, but not only are they bad for your nails, they’re not so nice for your cuticles. When putting on artificial nails, part of the process involves filing your real nail. During this process, the technician will usually also remove your cuticles to make sure the artificial nail has a flat base.
How bad is cutting your cuticles?
Cutting your cuticles is a practice that can easily be avoided and is best for your overall health. While trimming that skin every now and then probably won’t hurt much, it’s best to leave your cuticles alone.
