It’s easy to overlook the often neglected area of our hands—our cuticles—which, despite playing such a vital role protecting our bodies, can often be neglected for weeks or even months. Dry, brittle cuticles can be uncomfortable, unattractive, and can open the door for infection and disease. Fortunately, there are easy steps skincare enthusiasts can take to nourish and repair dry, brittle cuticles to keep them Soft, Supple, and Healthy.
Understanding Cuticles
Our cuticles are tiny folds of skin situated between our nail and finger. They form a protective barrier around the base of our nails and their health is essential to ward off infections and other health problems. Dry cuticles are caused by a lack of moisture, leading to cracks and tears that leave them brittle and exposed. Furthermore, overuse of manicure tools and products, frequent hand-washing, or frequent exposure to harsh weather conditions can also contribute to dry cuticles.
Our cuticles are tiny folds of skin situated between our nail and finger. They form a protective barrier around the base of our nails and their health is essential to ward off infections and other health problems.
Benefits of Proper Skincare for Cuticles
Taking proper care of your cuticles can be beneficial in multiple ways. It can help alleviate cracking, splitting or painful symptoms that can be caused by frantic, unhealthy cuticles. By taking care of your cuticles and maintaining them in good condition, you can help to prevent the risk of infection, which can affect not only your nails but your entire body.
What to Do: Steps to Nourish and Repair Cuticles
- Moisturize Regularly
Cuticles love moisture and if you want to keep them supple and healthy you need to moisturize them regularly. This can be as simple as using an everyday hand cream and gently massaging it into your cuticles. If you want to really indulge, there are specialized cuticle creams and balms on the market that are rich in nutrients and vitamins, acting as an intensive treatment to your dry, fidgety fingers.
- Shield from the Sun
It isn’t only harsh weather conditions that affect our cuticles – the sun can be just as damaging. Remember to apply sunscreen to your hands and keep them covered when outdoors to protect them from the sun’s powerful rays.
- Treat Yourself to a Hand Soak
Soaking your hands in warm water regularly is like giving them a mini spa experience that helps improve circulation, soothe tired hands, and soften cuticles in no time. Try creating a luxurious floral hand soak by adding a few drops of your favorite essential oils. Not only will this be a treat for your senses, but it will also be an enjoyable treat for your hands.
- void Overusing Manicure Tools
Manicure tools might be a great way to give your nails a professional looking finish, but they can be damaging to your cuticles if not used correctly. Scraping and pushing your cuticles with excessive force can aggravate them and leave them exposed to infection and disease. Always use manicure tools carefully, preferably following the advice of a professional.
- Eat Healthy Fats
Another thing you can do to combat dry cuticles is by eating food that contains healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, nuts, and seeds. Healthy fats will help to keep your skin hydrated and nourished from the inside out.
Conclusion
Taking better care of your cuticles doesn’t have to be a chore. Simple steps like moisturizing, using sunscreen, soaking your hands, avoiding over-manicuring and eating healthy fats can help maintain your cuticles in good condition and ward off dryness and damage. Taking care of your cuticles will not only make them look better, but will also keep them healthy and safe.
