Where’s the cuticle and what does it do?
The cuticle is a layer of clear skin located along the bottom edge of your finger or toe. This area is known as the nail bed. The cuticle function is to protect new nails from bacteria when they grow out from the nail root.
The area around the cuticle is delicate. It can get dry, damaged, and infected. It’s important to care for the entire nail area and keep it clean so that your nails stay healthy.
Read on to learn more about the cuticle and what you can do to care for this area.
Cuticle vs. nail lunula
The cuticle is the transparent skin located above and around the nail base. The lunula is the half-moon shape seen at the base of the nail. The lunula is located above the cuticle.
Hair cuticles
Human hair also contains cuticles. These are different from nail cuticles but have a similar function. Hair cuticles serve as a protective layer for the hair. They’re composed of dead, overlapping cells.
When healthy, these cuticles give your hair shine and protect its inner layers from damage.
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How do you take care of your cuticles?
It’s important to keep your cuticles clean at home. This prevents infection.
The easiest way to care for them is to soak your hand or foot in soapy, warm water for around 10 minutes every few days. This helps soften the cuticle and keeps your nails clean.
You can also apply cuticle oil and massage cream. Moisturize your cuticles regularly to prevent dryness and cracking.
Is it safe to cut them?
Research about the safety of cutting cuticles is mixed. Both the Mayo Clinic and the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) advise against cutting cuticles. This includes cutting them at home or in a nail salon.
Cuticles protect both your nails and the skin surrounding them from infection. After cutting the cuticle, it’s easier for bacteria and germs to get inside. This can lead to an infection.
Most nail salons continue to cut cuticles, despite these guidelines. They argue that it helps polish go on better and stay on longer.
Instead of having them cut at your next manicure, ask your technician to just push back the cuticle and trim loose skin and hangnails.
Read the Complete Article at healthline.com
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Also read: How to Treat and Get Rid of an Ingrown Toenail