Essential Tips for Stronger Nails and Healthy Cuticles

Healthy, well-manicured nails make you look instantly more polished and put-together. But what about your cuticles? They're the foundation of your nails, and they deserve just as much care.

What are Cuticles?

Cuticles are the thin layer of skin that surrounds the base of your nails. They help to protect your nails from dirt and bacteria, and they also help to keep your nails healthy and strong.

Why is Cuticle Care Important?

Cuticle care is important because it helps to keep your nails healthy and strong. When your cuticles are healthy, they help to protect your nails from dirt and bacteria. They also help to keep your nails from splitting and peeling

Here's is everything you need to know about your cuticles and how to care for them at home.

1. Purchase a cuticle remover.

To begin your cuticle care routine, start by neatly trimming and filing your nails into your desired shape. Then, using a quality cuticle remover, gently moisten the cuticle area. This will help lift the cuticles away from the nail plate, making it easier to identify what needs to be pushed back.

2. Then, gently push back.

Once the cuticles are lifted, use a soft cuticle pusher to gently push them back. Afterward, rinse off the cuticle remover from the nail plate using soap and water. Be cautious and only remove excess dead skin. It's important to avoid cutting around the nail plate, as this can lead to potential infections and irritations.

3. Cuticles should not be cut.

Dermatologists strongly advise against cutting the cuticles. This practice can increase the risk of infection and hinder nail growth. Cutting the cuticles may result in issues like ridges, white spots, or lines on the nails. Additionally, it can be both unattractive and uncomfortable. Instead of using metal pushers, switch to gentle orange wood sticks to minimize the risk of damage.

4. Instead of a metal pusher, use an orange wood stick.

When visiting a nail salon, ensure that your manicurist understands your preference for gentle cuticle care. Some manicurists may be overly vigorous, causing redness and soreness. Politely request that they use an orange wood stick for gentle cuticle pushing before proceeding with the manicure.

5. Rough Manicurists should be avoided.

Frequent dishwashing and exposure to acetone-containing nail polish removers can cause dryness in your hands, nails, and cuticles. Protect your hands by wearing gloves while doing dishes and opt for acetone-free nail polish removers. Consider using DeBelle nail polish wipes enriched with Jojoba Oil, Olive Oil, and Vitamin E. These wipes effectively remove nail polish while moisturizing your nails and cuticles. Remember to wear gloves while performing household chores.

6. Avoid using drying agents.

Breaking the habit of biting your nails or nibbling on your cuticles is crucial for healthier and more beautiful hands. Biting your nails can introduce infections if you break the cuticle. Distract yourself by frequently painting your nails with pretty nail art, which will discourage you from ruining them.

7. Quit biting your nails.

After pushing back and trimming your cuticles, apply cuticle oil to moisturize them. For deeper hydration, ensure that your nails are clean before application. Allow the oil to penetrate for a few minutes, then gently massage it in. Afterward, remove any excess oil with a cotton ball, leaving your hands ready for a charming manicure.

8. Use cuticle oil.

After you've pushed back and trimmed your cuticles, moisturise them with cuticle oil. To get deeper moisturisation, make sure you apply it to clean nails. Let the oil sink for a few minutes before gently massaging it if you're polishing. After allowing it to soak in, wipe away the excess with a cotton ball, and your hands are ready for a cute manicure!

9. Don't forget to bring sunscreen.

Remember to apply sunscreen to your hands and nails daily. The skin beneath your nails is just as sensitive as the rest of your skin and deserves protection. By applying sunscreen, you can prevent premature sunspots on your hands. Consider using DeBelle Mineral Sunscreen, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50+++ enriched with Vitamin C and Zinc for optimal skin protection.

10. Don't forget to look after your nail tools as well.

Sanitizing your nail tools between usage is just as essential as cleaning your makeup brushes regularly, and for the same reason: bacteria. To keep your nails infection-free, disinfect your nail files, cuticle pushers, nail clippers, and so on because you don't want dead skin cells and bacteria to return with unclean tools.