Buzz
Dealing with itching and irritation around the cuticles can be extremely frustrating. You may be wondering why this occurs and how to stop the itching, as well as how to prevent it in the future. Luckily, we're here to help! Below are the most common questions answered about treating and preventing the recurrence of nail cuticle itch.
Steps
Why Are My Cuticles Itchy?
The two most common causes are inflammation and allergies. These issues arise from different sources, neither of which are typically serious, but both can be annoying and uncomfortable. Fortunately, both can be easily treated at home.
- Infections, also known as paronychia, occur when bacteria or fungi invade the skin around the cuticle. This condition can be acute or chronic, depending on the cause of the inflammation.
- Allergic reactions are often triggered by products like acrylic nails. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, these products can cause itching and swelling in the areas that come into contact with them.
How Can I Relieve the Itching?
The solution depends on whether you're dealing with inflammation or an allergy. Before trying any treatments, you should assess your symptoms and pinpoint the cause. Once you have a clearer understanding, you can explore a few remedies.
- If it's inflammation, soak your hands or feet in warm water 3-4 times a day until the area heals. This will help alleviate the itching, reduce pain, and ease the swelling.
- If it's an allergy, remove the artificial nails or polish. This step will help stop the allergic reaction from irritating the skin. After that, apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to avoid further irritation.
How Can I Tell the Difference Between Inflammation and an Allergy?
Allergies and inflammation show different symptoms. While both conditions cause itching, there are other signs that can help you distinguish between the two.
- Inflammation leads to redness, swelling, and pain around the nail base. You might also notice pus-filled abscesses in the inflamed area. This condition rarely affects multiple nails at the same time.
- Allergies typically appear right after contact with the allergen, so if you recently got your nails done, that might be the cause. Common symptoms include itching, swelling, and redness, often affecting several nails simultaneously.
How Can I Prevent This from Happening Again?
The best way to avoid nail problems is by maintaining good nail hygiene. Whether you have allergies or inflammation, there are some basic steps you can take to prevent recurring conditions. Follow these nail care tips to ensure your cuticles stay healthy.
- Keep your nails clean and dry to prevent bacterial growth.
- Trim your nails straight across and gently round the edges.
- Apply cuticle cream to prevent irritation.
- Avoid biting your nails and picking at the cuticles.
- Wear gloves when handling chemicals or soap.
Is it normal for the cuticle to be irritated after a manicure?
No, it's not normal for the cuticle to become irritated after a manicure. Any signs like itching, swelling, or redness indicate something is wrong. These are often signs of a reaction to the chemicals used by the nail technician.
- You might also be at risk of infection if the nail technician uses unsterilized tools.
- Allergic reactions to skincare products are usually not dangerous but can cause itching, redness, and irritation. However, if you experience pain or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
If I have an allergy, should I stop getting manicures?
Not necessarily, but you should avoid acrylic products. You don’t need to stop manicures or nail care altogether, but it’s essential to avoid fake nails or acrylic gel nails. This helps you prevent allergic reactions.
- Regular nail polish doesn’t contain acrylic, so you can still enjoy painting your nails if you'd like.
- If you go to a nail salon, inform the technician about your acrylic allergy so they don't use anything that could trigger a reaction.
- If you do your nails at home, consider wearing gloves for protection.
I've never had an acrylic allergy before—why am I getting it now?
Allergies can develop at any time, often without warning. Just because you’ve never had a reaction to a substance in the past doesn’t mean it’s impossible to become allergic to it in the future. Even if you’ve used a product for years without any issues, an allergic reaction can occur at any point.
- Prolonged exposure to nail chemicals can increase your sensitivity over time. If you're a nail technician or frequently get manicures, it wouldn’t be surprising if you suddenly develop an allergy.
Does this happen on the feet as well?
Yes, you can experience inflammation or allergies on both your hands and feet. If you often get pedicures or use nail products on your toenails, this is entirely possible. Fortunately, the symptoms and treatments are the same, so there’s nothing additional you need to do.
Do I need to see a doctor?
If you don’t see improvement within a few days, the answer is yes. Whether you have inflammation or an allergy, these conditions usually improve within a few days with at-home care. However, if you don't notice any improvement or if symptoms worsen, it’s time to see a doctor for further treatment.
- If you have an infection around the nail, your doctor may prescribe either topical or oral antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria. If it’s a fungal infection, antifungal treatments, either topical or oral, may be recommended.
- For allergic reactions, your doctor might suggest corticosteroid creams to reduce inflammation.
Advice
- Always go to licensed salons for manicures. These establishments are more likely to follow proper sanitation practices.
Warning
- While cutting the cuticle is a common practice during manicures, it's actually a bad idea. This can create an opening for bacteria to enter the nail bed, leading to infection. It's best to avoid cutting the cuticle.
