Tips for Cuticle Healing

The area surrounding your nails, commonly referred to as cuticles, is prone to damage. Maintaining healthy cuticles involves identifying the cause of injury and seeking appropriate treatment. Avoid cutting your cuticles and instead gently push them back. Apply cuticle oil regularly and consider getting a hand massage to improve blood circulation for faster healing.

Identify the cause of the injury: Examine the skin around your nails to identify any issues. Look for signs of picking or biting, dryness, or discoloration. Bumps or ridges may indicate trauma or underlying health conditions. Seek medical advice if necessary, especially for signs of infection, fungus, or other health concerns.

Address any cuts or open wounds. Prevent infection by promptly treating any cuts on your hands. Clean the area with an alcohol wipe, apply Neosporin, and cover with a bandaid if necessary. Ensure the wound is kept clean and monitor its healing progress.

Consult a physician. If your cuticles are persistently painful or fail to heal, seek medical advice from your doctor. Underlying infections or hormonal imbalances may require professional attention. Discuss any recent hand injuries or concerns about nail deformities with your doctor.

Get immediate medical help. Seek urgent assistance for severe injuries to your nail bed or cuticle, especially if crushed or deeply lacerated. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent nerve damage and other complications. Nail avulsions or extensive nail bed injuries may require medical intervention for proper healing.

Gently push back cuticles.

Instead of cutting, use a nail pusher to gently push back cuticles after showering when they're soft. Preserve the cuticle as a natural barrier against germs. Trim hangnails or excess skin cautiously with sanitized scissors, avoiding damage to healthy tissue.

Use cuticle cream or serum. Apply a generous amount of cuticle cream after pushing back your cuticles. Make it a part of your post-shower routine, especially if your cuticles are damaged. Consider using specialty products like rose hip oil for added vitamin A benefits.

Avoid nail polish. Nail polish chemicals can irritate cuticles and nails. Give your nails a break for a few weeks if you notice irritation. When you return to polish, choose types suitable for sensitive nails and cuticles.

Moisturize with socks or gloves. Moisturize your nails before bed and wear cotton gloves or socks to keep the moisture in. This protects against dry air and prevents oil transfer. It's also helpful for nail biters, especially children.

Try soaking. Mix aloe vera juice, olive oil, and raw honey in a bowl. Soak your fingers in the mixture for five minutes, three times a week. Get creative with soaking ingredients like orange juice or coconut oil. Alternatively, try a paraffin wax bath for softer skin and nails.

Avoid exposure to harmful substances. Wear gloves when handling chemicals and protect your nails from prolonged sun exposure. Use gentle soap to prevent dryness when washing your hands.

Break the habit of nail biting or picking. Stop these behaviors and consider applying a bitter substance like lemon oil to deter biting. Reward yourself with a manicure once your cuticles are healed.

Handle polish and artificial nails with care. Acetone can be harsh on your skin, so take breaks from polish and opt for gentle removal solutions. Remove polish slowly and choose products that are gentle on your nails and cuticles.

Enjoy a hand massage. Stimulate blood flow to your hands and fingers by giving yourself a massage or visiting a professional masseuse. This promotes healing and growth of your cuticles.

Visit a manicurist. Treat yourself to a professional manicure once your cuticles are healthy. Inform your manicurist about any concerns you have and request gentle cuticle care.

Practice patience. Healing painful or damaged cuticles can take time, typically 3-6 months. Treat your hands gently during this period and avoid rushing into applying new polish or potentially harmful nail treatments.