What is a cuticle?
The cuticle is a thin layer of transparent skin at the base of the nail. Its main role is to protect the new nail cells that grow from the nail matrix. Maintaining healthy cuticles is essential to nail integrity and beauty.
Why is cuticle care important?
Cuticle care is crucial because cuticles act as a barrier against bacteria and infection. Damaged or infected cuticles can not only affect nail growth, but also lead to painful infections. What's more, well-maintained cuticles improve the aesthetic appearance of your hands.
What are the best ways to care for cuticles?
For optimum cuticle care, we recommend :
What products are recommended for cuticle care?
Several products are effective for cuticle care, including :
Are there professional treatments for cuticle care?
Yes, there are several professional options for cuticle care:
How to avoid cuticle problems?
To avoid cuticle problems, we recommend the following:
Can cuticles affect nail health?
Absolutely, unhealthy cuticles can lead to a number of nail problems, such as ingrown toenails, nail detachment and infection. So it's vital to take care of your cuticles to promote healthy nail growth.
What impact do climatic conditions have on cuticles?
Climatic conditions, such as extreme cold or dry heat, can have a significant impact on cuticle health. Cold can cause rapid drying, making cuticles rough and prone to cracking. Conversely, heat can cause excessive perspiration, resulting in insufficient hydration of the skin around the nails. It is advisable to adapt cuticle care according to the season, using moisturizing or protective products of varying richness.
Can damaged cuticles be repaired? If so, how?
Damaged cuticles can be repaired with the right care. Intensive treatments such as masks based on shea butter or beeswax are recommended to provide deep hydration. It's also a good idea to avoid contact with irritants, and to wear gloves when using detergents. Regular treatments and careful attention to hydration will gradually restore cuticle health.
What are the signs of cuticle infection?
Signs of cuticle infection, or paronychia, include redness, swelling, pain and sometimes pus around the nail. These symptoms require medical attention to avoid more serious complications. Treatment may involve antibiotics or antifungals, depending on the nature of the infection. Keeping cuticles clean and dry is essential to prevent these problems.
What are the risks associated with cuticle removal?
Cuticle removal, especially when carried out incorrectly, can expose you to the risk of infection and permanent damage to the nail matrix. It is preferable to gently push back cuticles after softening them, rather than cutting them. Using unsterilized instruments can also increase the risk of infection.
How do cosmetics affect cuticles?
Some cosmetic products, particularly those containing harsh chemical compounds such as acetates and formaldehyde, can dry out and damage cuticles. We recommend using toluene-, formaldehyde- and dibutyl phthalate-free nail polishes and removers to minimize damage. Opting for moisturizing and nourishing products after using cosmetics can help maintain cuticle health.