What Should You Be Looking At?
The cuticle sits atop your nail. It's actually an extension of your skin and it protects your nails by acting as a barrier for bacteria. You can tell if your cuticles are dry if they’re flaking, cracked, or peeling. If you notice this then take action fast as cracked and peeling cuticles may allow bacteria to enter your nails and cause an infection.
What Causes Dry Cuticles?
Dry cuticles can come from multiple factors. During the winter, cold weather coupled with dry indoor heat, as well as several possible internal factors can contribute to your less-than-stellar nail beds. We recommend taking a moment and identifying possible cuticle culprits that are simple fixes. Look at the cleaning products you use on a regular basis because they can intensify dryness. Do you spend time working outside? Also, how hydrated are you on a daily basis? All these small factors can contribute to dry cuticles.
How To Treat Dry Cuticles.
1. Use a good hand and nail moisturizing cream daily. Keep a hand cream or lotion on hand so that after you wash your hands on the go you can moisturize.
2. Hydrate, hydrate, and then hydrate some more. Water intake is vital for healthy skin, so carry a bottle with you at all times. If indoor heating is drying out your skin, it may be worth investing in a humidifier too.
3. Keep your cuticles pushed back. This can help prevent skin tearing and pulling behind the cuticle line. Take a reusable cuticle stick and push back the cuticle on each nail. Once you’ve done this, wipe away the loosened cuticle. We don’t recommend picking at your cuticles, so only carefully trim any excess skin if you really have to.
4. Wear gloves. When it comes to washing dishes or submerging your hands in water, reach for a pair of rubber gloves beforehand. Water and detergent can dry out your hands, and cause your cuticles further problems.
5. Go chemical-free. Harsh soaps, hand sanitizers, and nail polish removers can dry out your cuticles. Try to swap your products for cleansing oils when washing your hands and avoid alcohol-based sanitizers.
6. Get the prep work in now. If you’re already showing signs of dry winter skin, treat yourself before it’s too late. You can exfoliate in the shower to buff away any dry unwanted skin then moisturize when you exit the shower.
7. Up your vitamins. Cracked cuticles may be a sign of Zinc or Vitamin E deficiency. Reverse this problem by eating more foods rich in essential omega 3’s like spinach, salmon, and other seafood. If your nails are brittle, explore biotin supplements. Source
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