Cuticles play an important role in protecting nails, but opinions continue to divide between those who prefer to remove them and those who argue that they should just be pushed back. Experts consulted by the website warn that cutting this area can increase the risk of infections, especially when the manicure is done at home.
Nail care is part of many people’s routine, but not all gestures made during a manicure are harmless. One of the topics that raises the most questions is related to cuticles, the small layer of skin close to the base of the nail.
Some people remove them for aesthetic reasons, to leave the nail with a cleaner and more uniform appearance. However, dermatologists and professionals in the field recommend caution, as the cuticles function as a natural protective barrier.
Cuticles protect the nail
According to experts cited on Martha Stewart’s website, the general recommendation is not to remove cuticles, especially when the procedure is done at home and without professional supervision.
The main risk lies in the fact that this skin helps protect the nail against bacteria, fungi and other external agents. When it is cut too much, small wounds, irritation, inflammation or infection can appear.
“The cuticles serve to protect the nails and act as a protective barrier”, explained Renee Oquel Mesa, professional manicurist, to the same website. According to the expert, cutting this area too much can cause wounds and increase the risk of problems.
Pushing may be a safer alternative
Instead of cutting, many professionals advise gently pushing back the cuticles. This gesture allows you to improve the appearance of your nail without completely eliminating its natural protection.
Even so, the procedure must be carried out carefully and with appropriate utensils. The skin must be softened to avoid injuries and discomfort.
According to experts, the safest way is to apply a specific product, such as a serum or cuticle softener, and immerse your hands in warm water for a few minutes before gently pushing the skin away.
When should you avoid touching your cuticles?
Complete removal should be avoided, but there may be an exception when there is excess skin after pushing back the cuticle. Even in these cases, the cut must be limited and done carefully.
The procedure can be repeated once a week or every two weeks, depending on the growth of the nails and cuticles.
However, you should not push or cut the area if there are cuts, loose skin, redness, pain, swelling or signs of infection. In these cases, the most prudent thing is to let the skin recover or seek professional advice.
Diet also influences nail health
In addition to external care, nail health can also reflect the general condition of the body. Weak, brittle or very dry nails can be associated with dehydration, nutritional deficits or other health conditions.
Dermatologist Sarah Sung explained to Real Simple magazine that some foods can help strengthen nails when included in a balanced diet.
Among the suggestions are eggs, as they are rich in protein and biotin. According to the expert, these nutrients can help improve the thickness of your nails and make them more resistant.
Protein and omega-3 can help
Salmon is another food mentioned by the dermatologist, due to its omega-3 content. A lack of this nutrient may be associated with drier and brittle nails.
Poultry meat, such as chicken and turkey, can also contribute to nail health, as they are sources of lean protein.
Even so, persistent changes in the nails, such as marked fragility, color changes, pain or deformities, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, especially when they appear suddenly or persist over time.
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