The Importance of Healthy Cuticles
Manicured nails will always be in style, but healthy nails need care. Think twice before trimming your cuticles.
What Are Cuticles and Why Are They Important?
The cuticle protects your nail bed from bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Cutting the cuticle exposes your nails to harmful infections. Infections like warts, herpes, and painful bacterial infections can occur. Removing the cuticle opens the door to fungal and yeast infections, which may take months to treat.
The Risks of Cutting Cuticles
Cutting cuticles can result in severe infections that are painful and slow to heal. The cuticle is a vital barrier for your nail bed. Removing it weakens this natural defense, putting your nails at risk. You may lose your nail to infections if you remove the cuticle.
Communicating with Your Nail Technician
Always ask your nail technician not to cut or push back your cuticles. This simple request can protect your nails from unnecessary harm. It’s important to be clear about what you want for healthy nails.
Infection Risks from Unsterilized Tools
Nail salons that don’t properly sterilize their tools put you at risk. Bacterial and fungal infections can transfer from contaminated tools. Even viral infections like Hepatitis C can spread through unclean tools. Hepatitis C can live in dried blood for up to three days.
Ensure Proper Tool Sterilization
Properly sterilized tools are stored in containers with color-changing indicators on the outside. Always ask your salon how they sterilize tools. Look for the color indicator that shows tools are clean. Check tools before your nail technician touches your nails. This extra step ensures you’re not exposed to harmful germs.
The Myth of Sterilization Bags
Many salons use sterilization bags that seem to guarantee clean tools, but they often don’t. Dr. Lily has found multiple salons where tools aren’t properly sanitized. Don’t trust the bag alone—always verify the tools yourself.
Cutting Cuticles Leads to Hangnails
Cutting your cuticles can increase the likelihood of developing hangnails. Hangnails form from dry, irritated skin, especially when exposed to chemicals or water. The more you manipulate your cuticles, the more likely you are to get hangnails.
Preventing Hangnails and Skin Damage
Keep your cuticles moisturized to avoid dryness. Avoid excessive exposure to chemicals or water. If you have hangnails, try not to pick at them. Give your skin time to heal naturally.
Protect Your Cuticles
Healthy cuticles protect your nails from infections and damage. Avoid cutting them for optimal nail health. Ask your technician to refrain from trimming or pushing back your cuticles. Always check that tools are properly sterilized to prevent infections. By taking these simple steps, you can keep your nails and cuticles in top shape.
Shop our favorite skincare and more on Derm to Door.com!
Head back to our blog here!
