Cuticle Problems : Smartest Way To Tackle It And Be Happy Again

Do you have bleeding cuticles, or fingernail cuticle problems, or probably looking for the smartest ways how to deal with the problem associated with nail cuticles in general? Then search no further because this article on cuticle problems contains everything you need to heal that annoying-looking cuticle overnight.

Over the years, with my little experiences about growing or grooming healthy natural looking nails, I’ve come to understand that the success of keeping that dream nail of yours is dependent on how well you take care of your nail cuticle.

In fact, cuticles to me are like tiny soldiers guiding the nails against intruders (Bacterial) from entering the nail root. The nail root or matrix is the region underneath the cuticle. It is that region where new nail cells are produced.

When you do not take care of these (the cuticle) as you’re supposed to, you will end up facing a series of infections such as cracked or peeling skin around the cuticle, which eventually leads to nail cuticle problems.

Causes of Cuticle Problems

Nail Cuticle problems may arise as a result of so many factors which can be intentional or deliberate actions or by coincidence. Deliberate actions like pushing long or overgrown cuticles backward in a forceful manner or consistent cuticle biting can cause serious health challenges, and you won’t be happy with the result you’re most likely to get. Apart from the deliberate act, other factors can as well lead to complications for your nail cuticle.

One such activity includes using nail hardening cream. When you do this often, you’re posing a severe health challenge for your cuticle, and the result after that can be devastating. Having said that, let’s quickly look at some of the nail cuticle problems we experience daily.

1. Peeling Or Partly Cracked Cuticles

No matter how regular you can get to get your nails done, if you’re that type that still has peelings or bleeding cuticles, Then you obviously won’t be that excited because no one actually deserves the feeling of having to walk around with damaged cuticles as far as I’m concerned.

Peeling cuticles can be very annoying and would leave the bearer with some level of insecurity. Imagine having to walk around carrying a peeled cuticle. Isn’t that much of an embarrassing situation? Well, to me, nothing on this earth can be compared to a peeled and partly cracked cuticle.

Cuticle peeling or partly cracked Cuticles occur when the layers surrounding the cuticle start peeling or have some cracks as a result of excessive use of hand sanitizers, cuticle/nail-biting, malnutrition, and some chemotherapeutic agents, etc.

Causes of peeling cuticles

In fact, hand sanitizers have been linked as the major causes of brittle nails because the sanitizers strip the cuticle off moisture needed for active nail growth. When this happens, it makes the cuticle surrounding the nail plate looks ugly and unfit for public viewing.

Apart from the usual causes of peeling cuticles, which of cause can be easily linked to using harsh hand sanitizers, peeling cuticles can as well be a result of vitamin deficiency.

Now that you know some of the causes of peeling cuticles, what measures can you then take to prevent this?

Ways To Prevent Cracked Or Peeling Cuticles

As there’s no problem on this earth without a solution, below is a quick runway on some of the possible ways to prevent peeling or partly cracked cuticles.

1. Avoid the use of hand sanitizers as they contain a very active element capable of causing irritation to your cuticle.
2.  Apply lotion-like baby oil on the affected parts regularly, most preferably in the morning and at the night.
3. Take more water as this will help keep your cuticle from getting cracked up.
4. Moisturise regularly. When you notice you’re having a cracky peeling and dry cuticle problem, the first plan of action is to moisturize your cuticle with either of the following; Cuticle cream, Cuticle oil, Olive oil, Coconut oil, and Lip balm.
5. And most importantly, eat healthily. Try to incorporate more proteins or leafy vegetables into your diet.

2. Dry Cuticle

One major issue faced by many, including myself during the Winter season, is having to deal with Dry cuticles. This issue is so rampant that if not attended to on time, it can lead to severe Nail disease. A cuticle can be termed dry when it’s crackly and looks peeling in nature.

Causes of dry cuticles

Some of the common causes of cuticle dryness include: not moisturizing skin, washing hands too often, using hand sanitizer or nail polish remover in abundance, cold weather, eczema, malnutrition and some medications. Nail-biting or cuticle biting can also be a culprit.

When the cuticle becomes dry and cracky, bacteria, debris, and other harmful organisms can easily make their way to the Matrix, thereby causing more harm than you can imagine. Now that you know the major catalyst or causes of the dry cuticle, what then can be done to combat this ugly-looking scene around your precious nails?

How to Treat Dry Cuticle

1. Use Nail Cuticle Cream

Cuticle cream acts as a lubricant that protects and safeguards the layers around the cuticle from getting dried up when applied. If you must buy cuticle cream to moisturize your Dry cuticle, look for ingredients such as Vitamin A, and E and be sure it contains natural oil such as sunflower in it. To apply, simply take a little quantity of the cream then massage gently around your cuticle for about 2-3 minutes. The reason for this is to ensure blood flows through your cuticle. Don’t just rub, massage gently.

2. Nail Cuticle oil

Cuticle oil works almost the same way as cuticle cream. The only difference is that cuticle oil prevents future dryness of the cuticle. Please, if you must get one for your cracky, peeling dry cuticle, be sure to look for ingredients such as vitamin E, Aloe Vera oil, or sunflower oil.

To apply, massage the oil around the cuticle using your hand, then allow the cuticle to absorb the oil for about 2-3 minutes. For an effective result, leave the oil on the cuticle all through the night.

PS: The best time to apply your cuticle oil is at night or after taking your shower.

3. Olive oil

Olive oil can as well be used to cure dry cuticles in place of cuticle oil. This oil contains an essential ingredient that moisturizes patches and dry cuticles when applied the right way.

For an effective application, warm a small amount of olive oil using a microwave. Then soak your finger in it for about 3-5 minutes. While at it, massage the olive oil around your cuticle.  Massaging the oil on your nails and cuticle helps to moisturize the skin and stops them from getting dried.

4. Coconut oil

If you’re on a low budget or probably looking for natural ways of keeping your cuticle moisturized, then this little homemade oil is for you. Coconut oil contains unique ingredients that help heal dry cuticles in no time.

To apply, a warm small quantity of coconut should be used with a light massage gently around the affected areas. Leave the oil overnight by wearing hand gloves for effective results.

Is It Right To Trim Or Cut My Cuticle?

No, it’s wrong to trim or cut your cuticle. Cuticles shouldn’t be cut or trimmed; rather, they can be pushed backward using a cuticle pusher, Orange sticks, or your fingernail itself.  So if you’re fond of trimming your cuticle, just know that you’re creating room for bacterial infection.

General Care For Your Cuticle

As it is with your hair, your cuticle should be cared for as well. When you do not take good care of your cuticle, you’ll end up having issues with them.

So how then do you care for your cuticle to avoid getting cracky, peeling unsightly-looking cuticle?

1. Dip cracked or peeling dry cuticles in warm water always. This helps to soften the skin around the cuticle and helps the blood to flow well.
2. When the cuticle has absorbed moisture, use either a wooden cuticle pusher to push the ingrown cuticle back to its original position. If you must use a metal cuticle pusher, be sure to sterilize it before use.
3. Never cut or trim your cuticle as this might cause injury to your cuticle, thereby acting as a breeding ground for bacterial infection.
4. Be sure to moisturize your cuticle either with olive oil, cuticle cream, or cuticle oil every day at least 3 times a day.
5. If you notice any strange pain, swelling, or redness around the cuticle, please contact your dermatologist immediately.

Conclusion

Having to take care of problems associated with cuticles can be so tiring, especially the ones caused by using harsh chemicals such as detergents, or hardeners. No matter how difficult it can get, taking good care of our cuticles should be everyone’s top priority.

If you do not take care of them, you’ll be fighting a lost battle as this cuticle serves as the bedrock towards getting the beautiful nails of your dream. Now that I’ve covered a little about some major Nail Cuticle Problems, it is now left for you to decide which part of the court to stay.

Whichever your decision is, don’t forget that if you must live healthily, you should also learn to start taking action today.