We’ve all heard of cuticles, but who actually pays attention to them? And which bit are they, exactly? What does a cuticle even do?
The short answers are; hardly anyone, probably a different bit than you think, and they’re actually super important. Take care of your cuticles and they’ll reward you with strong, healthy nails.
Here’s your ultimate fuss-free guide, including why Self Love Oil is the most underrated product in your nail-care arsenal.
Ok, so what exactly is a cuticle?
Your cuticles are the unsung heroes of your nailbed. They’re found at the base of your nail, at the intersection between the nail and skin. They can be hard to see, but no matter how small they are, they’re doing an amazing job.
Cuticles provide a natural barrier to fungus and bacteria. They’re like little goalies, stopping the bad stuff from entering the nail bed and causing infection.
If you break this amazing natural barrier, the cuticles can become inflamed and ragged. At the very least this'll detract from the perfection of your manicure. At worst, you could end up with the kind of infection that permanently damages your nails.
So, whatever you do, don’t cut them!
Why would you want to remove a cuticle?
Yes, they are little wonders. But they can also get a bit out of control.
Cuticles are formed in a weird way. As the nail grows it rips the underside of your eponychium (the skin at the base of your nails) and takes it with it. This is the cuticle. It grips hard to both the nail plate and the eponychium. This is what creates such a great seal.
If that grip is too strong it starts to pull the skin tight and stretch it out. It can also get a bit unruly at the base of the nail. So we push them back gently, removing any dry 'dead cuticle' from the nail plate. Just NOT by cutting them.
A step-by-step on cuticle care
Step 1: Remove nail polish and shape
Use a nail polish remover to nix any traces of remaining nail polish on your nails (avoid using a remover that contains nasties like acetone). File and shape your nails to your desired shape and length (here's a handy guide to flattering nail shapes).
Step 2: Apply cuticle remover
Cuticle remover helps with moisturising and help massage away any dry cuticles or dead skin cells. It gives the nails an even, radiant and smooth finish and also helps to improve the skin’s suppleness.
Step 3: Push cuticles back
Soak your fingers in some soapy lukewarm water. This helps with the softening of the cuticles and also cleanses any impurities that may be underneath them. Gently pat dry your nails and start to carefully push them back with a cuticle pushy. Once you’re satisfied, you can use a nail buffer to smooth down any long or overgrown cuticles.
Step 4: Moisturise
Finish up by using a healthy dose of our Self Love Oil on all your cuticles. A super-nourishing cuticle oil designed to strengthen and revitalise nails, it's perfect for daily use - and the most underrated product in your nail-care arsenal.
Here are just some of benefits of Self Love Oil:
- Helps strengthen nails
- Helps to prevent cracked, peeling and dry cuticles
- Makes nails appear shinier, smoother and healthier
- Promotes healthy nail growth
- Helps stop water absorption, which can cause peeling
Massage into cuticles and nails morning and night, reapplying as often as needed. Don't forget to apply Self Love Oil to your nails and cuticles before showering and swimming to help protect them from water damage.
Healthy cuticles mean healthy nails. We're so on board for that!
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