Why do you suffer with dry cuticles?

So why is cuticle care so important?

You may have noticed your nail technician applies a cuticle oil after they've finished the service, but why?

Well, firstly, it's a lovely way to end the appointment after all the work we've carried out, but there's more to it.

We hope that by implementing this into our routine, you as a client will do the same.

Cuticle oil should be applied twice a day, but I'm no preacher, so once a day is probably more realistic.

OK, so here's the scientific part: regular use of cuticle oil keeps the skin hydrated, locks in moisture, and stops the skin from drying out. When the skin surrounding our nails becomes dry, it can lead to splitting and hangnails. Hangnails are those little tears of skin that stick out from the sides or corners of the fold of skin at the cuticle (actual term proximal nail fold) and side walls. These flaps of skin should not be pulled as they are attached to living tissue, and if pulled, the problem just becomes worse. Ideally, they should be left alone and moisturized, but if they are at risk of more damage, they can be gently nipped away using a pair of professional cuticle nippers. Another symptom of dry skin is splitting at the cuticle area; these can be irritating and uncomfortable. Any tears in the skin are susceptible to infection.

Overgrown cuticles

The other thing I see is clients who suffer from an overgrown nail fold; this can be down to inconsistent skincare, job-related issues, or because they can't keep their fingers out of their mouths. This overgrown nail fold is difficult to treat during a nail service. The nail fold needs to be teased back and dead cuticle removed from the nail plate in order for any nail coating to adhere and last. When this area is treated during a nail service, it tends to be highly sensitive as, after all, it is living tissue, so the utmost care is taken when treating this area. Unfortunately, at no fault of the technician, it can tear easily. Regular use of cuticle oil will keep this fold at bay and off the nail plate.

For the overall health of the nail structure, the skin must be looked after and nourished on a regular basis.

The next time you visit your local beauty store or nail salon, pick up a bottle of oil and keep it somewhere visible at home, perhaps on your bathroom shelf. Make it a part of your daily routine.