How To: Care for Your Cuticles
The cuticle has a big job: This sliver of skin acts as a protective barrier, preventing bacteria from sneaking into the nail
bed and causing infection. Keep your cuticles healthy with the few simple steps demonstrated in this video.
What You Need
Nail-polish remover, hair conditioner, bowl of warm water, towel, soft cloth
Follow These Four Easy Steps
Time Inc. Studios
1Remove your old polish
Use nail-polish remover—preferably one without acetone, which is harsh and drying to nails and skin—to eliminate all traces of old polish.
Time Inc. Studios
2Moisturize your nails
Work a drop or two of hair conditioner into your cuticles to make them supple.
Time Inc. Studios
3Soak your hand in warm water
Let your hand sit in warm water for a few minutes to soften the skin.
Tip: Work olive oil into your nail beds for a quick cuticle-moisture fix after a shower.
Time Inc. Studios
4Push back cuticles
Remove your hand from the water, dry it, then use a soft cloth to gently push back your cuticles. Don’t cut them — cut cuticles make you prone to infection.
Advertisement
