People not only bite their nails alone, but some also bite their cuticles. If you’ve been chewing your cuticle for as long as you can remember, then you must have thought about whether or not bitten cuticles can grow back, which brings us to the obvious question.
Do Cuticles Grow Back? Yes, they do grow back but not as good-looking as you would expect them to be. Rather, they’ll grow out looking weird.
So the next time you want to pick at your cuticle or probably want to cut them off simply because they’ve overgrown, you should think twice so as not to put yourself in more danger.
What Is The Cause Of Damaged Cuticle?
Cuticles usually don’t get damaged on their own; something or someone must be responsible. Below are a few of what might cause your cuticle to be damaged.
1. Dry Skin
Dry skin is one of the most common causes of cuticle damage; this happens only when your cuticle dries out. Here’s what happens when the skin around your cuticle doesn’t get enough moisture.
When your skin dries out, your cuticle usually loses a considerable amount of fats needed to keep them healthy and soft, and as such, any slight trauma may cause them to get torn easily.
In other to avoid such, all you need to do is to ensure that your cuticles are well moisturized constantly.
Applying moisturizers helps restore and keep your cuticle soft and healthy. If you’re looking for a perfect moisturizer with lots of fat content then you should try this ( Burt’s Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream ) from Amazon.
That being said, below is what causes dry skin.
1. Excessive washing of hands with hash soap
2. Overexposure of hand to water
3. Excessive use of hand sanitizers
4. Use of nail polish removers
5. Cold temperature.
2. Trimming
Cutting or trimming your nails during manicures can add cosmetic beauty to your nails but do you know that this single act can damage your cuticle? Well, now you know.
When you trim your cuticles, you’re indirectly exposing them to all sorts of infections which may ultimately damage your nails and cuticle in the long run.
So instead of trimming, it’s advisable to push them back with a cuticle pusher or orange sticks no matter how much they’ve overgrown. (Here’s an article on what causes overgrown cuticles and how to tame them)
3. Nail Biting
Your cuticle can become damaged if you consistently bite your nails and cuticle. Biting your cuticle doesn’t only damage them but it can as well make you fall sick.
If you’re a habitual nail biter then you really have to stop right away to keep the health of your nails and that of your cuticle in shape.
Can Damaged Cuticles Be Healed?
Yes, damaged cuticles can be healed, but before you proceed with the whole thing, you should be aware that the gravity of the damage would determine what treatment to apply.
If it’s something minor as a result of cuticle biting or you accidentally pushed your cuticles back too hard, then there are various ways you can adopt to heal them. Some of these are listed below.
1. Using Neosporin
Yes, Neosporin is a perfect antibiotic ointment for treating minor skin infection, which is usually caused by small cuts, burns, etc.
Here’s how to heal a damaged cuticle with Neosporin;
- Apply a reasonable amount of Neosporin to the affected parts. Let it sit on your damaged cuticle for a few minutes (this allows it to get fully soaked in)
- Once it is fully soaked, cover the affected area with a Band-aids
- Do this (for at least a week ) and you’ll be surprised at your result.
Note: For optimal results, I suggest you first take a warm bath before applying. Also, the best time I’ve found to be pretty effective for this treatment is just before you go to bed.
Do not forget to repeat these steps even after you might have seen improvement the next day. Keep at it for at least a week for your damaged cuticle to be fully healed.
2. By Applying Olive Oil
Yes, you heard me right, the oil from the olive tree is another easy and inexpensive way you can use to heal a damaged cuticle at home.
Here’s how to use olive oil to heal damaged cuticles;
- Take a bowl, then pour a considerable amount of the oil in it.
- Let your hands (particularly the one whose cuticle is damaged) sit on it for 10-15 minutes.
- Then place cotton wool over the damaged cuticle or soak the wool with oil, place it over your cuticle, and let them sit overnight.
- Repeat this process every other night until you begin to see evident results.
Note: You can bandage the soaked wool to the affected cuticle to prevent them from falling off at night.
3. By Using Moisturizing Cream
Applying moisturizing cream is another way to treat damaged cuticles. Be sure to apply it several times a day until the health of your cuticles is fully restored. If you’re looking for a cream to use, you should try Nivea Hand Cream. It works like magic.
Note: You can also quicken the healing process by completely avoiding biting them. If you can do this, they’ll surely heal and grow out within a month.
Will Damaged Cuticle Grow Back?
Well, it all depends on the degree of damage done. If it’s something serious (more like an injury whereby there’s a deep cut through your nails/cuticle ), then it will take longer to regrow back completely.
If it’s something minor, it may take 4-6 weeks to grow back, but you should treat infected or damaged cuticles until they completely grow out.
How Long Does It Take for Cuticles to Grow Back?
On average, it can take about 4-6 weeks for cuticles to grow back, although this can vary depending on the individual. The rate of cuticle growth can vary from person to person and is influenced by several factors, such as age, health, and nutrition. On average, it can take about 4-6 weeks for cuticles to grow back, although this can vary depending on the individual. If you have damaged your cuticles or have a health condition that affects nail growth, it may take longer for your cuticles to grow back.
It is important to be patient and give your cuticles time to grow back. Avoid cutting or trimming your cuticles, as this can cause damage and interfere with their growth. Instead, try using cuticle oil or cream to moisturize and nourish your cuticles to help them grow back healthy.
If you are concerned about the growth of your cuticles, it is a good idea to consult a dermatologist or a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment. They can help you determine the cause of the problem and provide appropriate treatment options.
4 Ways You Can Regrow Cuticles
1. Clean the nail beds
We recommend that you clean the nail bed before applying any products. This process can be accomplished with a nail brush or an emery board if you don’t want to use a cuticle remover. Remember that you should not use a metal object such as an emery board on your cuticles because it could cause harm to the area around your nails and make them more prone to infection.
When cleaning your cuticles, always work from the bottom of your nails to the top of each finger. The vertical motion allows for easier removal of dead skin cells and reduces irritation caused by friction by cleaning only one layer of skin at a time during this process.
2. Use a cuticle cream
The next step is to apply a cuticle cream. These creams contain ingredients like lanolin, shea butter, and olive oil. Apply the cream to your cuticles and massage it, so it sinks into the skin. You can also buy specific cuticle creams designed specifically for your needs; they might have extra moisturizers or other ingredients to help keep nails healthy and strong.
3. Apply cuticle oil
If you’re serious about growing your cuticles and keeping them hydrated, applying a high-quality cuticle oil each night is essential. Apply the oil after showering or washing your hands, and apply it at every step of the process: from application all the way up to bedtime.
Using a brush will help improve absorption into the skin, but if you are using finger application, make sure not to forget about massaging the oil into those nails.
4. Rub vitamin E gel onto your cuticles
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant which can help restore your cuticles and nails to their former glory. To use the vitamin E method, apply a small amount of any topical vitamin E product onto your fingers or hands, depending on where you’re experiencing dryness.
Massage the oil into your cuticles for about five minutes until they become shiny and plump. Leave the oil on for at least two hours before washing it off with soap and warm water; you don’t want to wash it off too soon because then you won’t reap all of its benefits.
Repeat this process 2-3 times per week until all signs of cuticle damage have disappeared and you are sure your cuticles are growing.
Why Won’t My Cuticle Grow Back?
There can be several reasons why your cuticles may not be growing back as you expect. Some possible causes include:
1. Damage to the cuticle
If you have trimmed or pushed back your cuticles too aggressively or used harsh chemicals on your nails, it can damage the cuticles and prevent them from growing back properly.
2. Dry skin
Dry skin can cause your cuticles to become rough, brittle, and prone to cracking, making it difficult for them to grow back.
3. Fungal infections
Fungal infections of the nails, such as onychomycosis, can cause the cuticles to become inflamed, thickened, and discolored, which can interfere with their growth.
4. Nutrient deficiency
A deficiency in certain nutrients, such as zinc, can affect the health of your nails and cuticles and prevent them from growing properly.
5. Age
As you get older, your skin and nails naturally become drier and thinner, which can affect the growth of your cuticles.
If you are concerned about the growth of your cuticles, it is a good idea to consult a dermatologist or a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment. They can help you determine the cause of the problem and provide appropriate treatment options.
What Does a Healthy Cuticle Look Like?
If you’re trying to grow your cuticles, it’s important to know what a healthy one looks like. Your cuticle should be a healthy pink color and have a uniform shape. It should not have any cracks or splits and shouldn’t be loose from the nail plate when you move your finger back and forth.
The best way to determine if your cuticle is too long is by comparing it with any other nails you have on the same hand. If they seem noticeably longer than their counterparts, this may indicate that they are too long for optimal health.
How to Properly Take Care of Your Cuticles
1. Use Vitamin E to restore cuticles
If your cuticles have been damaged, a vitamin E gel can help restore them to their former glory. Vitamin E has antioxidant properties that protect against free radicals and promote nail growth. It also softens the skin and improves its elasticity, making it ideal for dry cuticles.
2. Try olive oil to hydrate
If your nails are healthy, but you’re looking for a natural moisturizer for dry cuticles, try olive oil. Olive oil is rich in antioxidants like vitamins A and E that help prevent oxidative damage to connective tissues like your skin and nails.
The omega-3 fatty acids found in olive oil also make this an excellent choice if you have an oily complexion because they have anti-inflammatory properties that calm inflammation while leaving the skin supple enough to absorb any excess moisture from the product itself.
3. Use cuticle oil to keep them from drying out
To keep cuticles from drying out and becoming flaky, use cuticle oil. Cuticle oils are available at any drugstore and can be used to prevent dryness in addition to moisturizing the nail bed. Apply a small amount of oil (in the same way you would apply hand lotion) daily or twice daily for the best results.
4. Use a cuticle cream to moisturize and soften cuticles
The best way to moisturize your cuticles is with a cream that contains ingredients such as lanolin, vitamin E, olive oil, jojoba oil, Avocado Oil, or shea butter. These natural oils are readily absorbed into the skin without leaving any greasy residue that could clog pores and cause breakouts.
You can also try using a product specifically designed for the hands and nails. For example:
- OPI Nail and Cuticle Oil — Contains Avocado Oil to soften cuticles while protecting them from environmental damage caused by harsh chemicals in soaps and detergents; also includes aloe vera for added moisture retention
- SUNDARI Neem and Cuticle Hand Treatment Oil — Made from 100% pure neem oil blended with mineral-rich sea minerals for fast-acting results; protects against dryness caused by windy weather conditions (e.g., winter)
5. Use castor oil for dry nails
Some people with thin nails will find that applying straight castor oil works well for them. Castor oil is also great for moisturizing dry skin, so it may help with both conditions. Be sure to follow the instructions on your bottle or jar carefully, too much can make your nails look oily or greasy.
If possible, soak your hands in warm water before applying castor oil to help it penetrate more effectively into the skin and nails.
Can Your Cuticles Overgrow?
Yes, your cuticles can overgrow. It is possible that they could get too long, though this is not common. The most likely reason you would have overgrown cuticles is because of a fungal infection or psoriasis, both of which can cause thickened skin on your hands, including the nail bed. If you have any concerns about your cuticles growing abnormally, see a doctor to determine the cause and get treatment for it as needed.
Does cutting your cuticles make them grow back thicker?
No, cutting your cuticles will not make them grow back thicker. In fact, cutting your cuticles can actually damage them and make them more prone to infection, which can interfere with their growth. It is important to take care of your cuticles and avoid cutting or trimming them. Instead, try using a cuticle oil or cream to moisturize and nourish your cuticles to help them grow back healthy.
Conclusion
Cuticles, as you may have already learned, grow back when trimmed or cut but then, usually takes a long time for them to regrow. Though they may regrow, do not expect to have a nice-looking cuticle and that’s because trimming them causes them to grow out faster and really weird.
So the next time you are tempted to go after your cuticles for some reason or the other, always consider the aftermath of your actions and what you stand to face as a result of having a damaged cuticle.
Sources
1. What Causes Overgrown Cuticles?
2. How To Heal Beat-Up Cuticles
