Stubborn overgrown cuticles can immediately ruin a perfectly good manicure. They’re a burden to deal with, and they can grow so fast. Don’t let your nails get ruined by bad cuticles! Try these cuticle care tips from celebrity manicurist Erica Marton, which she exclusively shared with us!
[Photos: Shutterstock]
The first and probably most important tip from Marton is to NEVER cut your cuticles! Some people have a serious habit of biting or cutting off their cuticles, and that does much more damage than good.
Your cuticles are there in the first place to protect your nail matrix, which is the point where your nail grows, according to WebMD. Cutting off your cuticles leaves an open wound on your fingers, which can lead to infection or irritation. Cutting your cuticles can also lead to problems like slower growth, ridges, white spots, or white lines on your nails.
Marton suggests getting manicures regularly to make sure your cuticles are properly cared for. “To maintain good cuticle care I would say have a weekly manicure by a professional,” she said. “Make sure they don't push or cut too aggressively, have the manicurist only cut what's hanging loose, like a hangnail.”
Trying to save some cash or can’t make it to the nail salon? No worries, Marton has a few at-home tips you can follow!
First, she recommends shaping your nails and applying cuticle softener, then soaking your hands in water. After you dry your hands with your cuticles a little damp, lightly push your cuticles with an orange wooden stick or cuticle pusher. Use a dry towel to rub off excess cuticle bits and cut off any hanging cuticle with a cuticle nipper.
After cleaning up your cuticles, apply oil then lotion to keep them hydrated. “Putting oil before lotion will help soften the cuticle so the lotion absorbs better,” says Marton.
She also suggests placing a few different cuticle oils around: leave one by your bed for morning and night, another on your desk at work, and an extra in your purse so you can reapply throughout the day to maintain the health of your nails and cuticles. Marton’s favorites are NCLA & Essie!
Our pick: Essie Nail Care Apricot Cuticle Oil ($9)
