Warm water helps to soften the skin around the nail for easy and pain-free grooming.
Soak metal and plastic cuticle pushers in isopropyl alcohol for 30 minutes before and after each use. [2] X Research source Throw away wooden orange sticks after every use. If you don’t have an orange stick or a cuticle pusher, use a cotton swab to push back your cuticles. [3] X Expert Source Laura MartinLicensed Cosmetologist Expert Interview. 29 May 2019.
Never cut the skin that surrounds and protects your nail, which is your upper cuticle. Your cuticles serve a function; they keep germs and bacteria from getting into your body through the area around your nails. Clipping that area is going to make you extra susceptible to infections. [4] X Expert Source Kristin PulaskiSalon Owner & Nail Specialist Expert Interview. 19 May 2020. Loose, extra skin will be white in color compared to the actually attached skin on your fingers. You only want to nip away skin that can snag on things and cause skin tears.
You can also try applying moisturizer underneath your nails as well. Alcohol and fragrance free moisturizers usually hydrate skin better. If your cuticles are dry and prone to splitting, make sure you keep them pushed back and moisturized. If there are loose or dry pieces, trim them away as soon as you notice them. [5] X Expert Source Laura MartinLicensed Cosmetologist Expert Interview. 29 May 2019.
If you want to improve the absorption of your moisturizer, cover it with petroleum jelly or paraffin wax to seal in the moisture. Then, put your gloves over your hands. For better, longer lasting results, repeat this procedure every night.
Keeping your hands moisturized is especially important in the dry, winter months.
Washing dishes in hot water without gloves. The hot water and soap pull out moisture from your hands. Wear gloves while you wash the dishes to protect your nails and hands. [7] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source After you wash dishes, make sure your hands are fully dry. Acetone-based nail polish remover. Acetone removes important natural oils from your skin and nails. Not wearing gloves in the winter months. The cold, dry air during the winter dries out your skin, so protect your hands by wearing gloves.
Some people pick the skin around their nails as a nervous habit. Looking into better ways to curb nervous habits, and practicing self-control can break this habit.
Try using a special foul-tasting ointment to keep you from putting your fingers near your mouth. If you struggle with a nail-biting habit, start by painting your nails a bright color so they’re more noticeable. The color will grab your attention, making you more aware of what you’re doing so you can stop chewing. You might also create a negative association with biting your nails by snapping a rubber band on your wrist every time you catch yourself chewing them. [9] X Expert Source Laura MartinLicensed Cosmetologist Expert Interview. 29 May 2019.
If you sweat a lot, increase your fluid consumption.
You can also take a vitamin supplement to support healthy nails. However, talk to your doctor before you take any supplements.
When you do file your nails, pull the file across your nail in one, steady direction. This helps prevent splits and tears in nails that “sawing” (pulling the nail file back and forth) creates.
