Why you shouldn’t cut your cuticles, according to experts

Your cuticles are an asset to your nails: they protect and care for the growth of new nails they are ready to grow tall and strong. However, when you book a manicure or pedicure, the cuticles are often removed during your treatment, a practice that can lead to inflammation and infection.

Although the look of trimmed cuticles is aesthetically pleasing, experts say you should be careful to protect your hands and feet. To find out why cuticle trimming isn’t recommended, we spoke to Chanel PerkinsDPM, double certified podiatrist, founder of FabFootDoc, And Marisa GarschickMD, NYC-based board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology on cuticle safety, how to care for them, and why you shouldn’t cut them to prevent cuticles injury absolutely.

What are cuticles?

According to Dr. Garshick cuticles are the thin layer of skin cells at the base of your fingernails and toes. “They serve as a protective barrier, preventing bacteria, fungi and other harmful organisms from entering the nail matrix, where new nail growth begins,” she says. The cuticle consists of dead epidermis cells and grows out to look like a thick layer of clear skin. “Although fragile, cuticles protect new nails as they grow out, keeping bacteria and fungus away,” says Dr. Perkins.

How to care for cuticles

Caring for your cuticles means keeping them moisturized like you would any other part of your body, but you might be thinking, why are cracked cuticles so bad? “Open cracks would be a gateway for bacteria and fungi to enter,” says Dr. Perkins, which can lead to inflammation, irritation and infections, also called an unhealthy environment for nail growth.

To tackle this, the experts recommend opting for a cuticle oil like Essie Roll-On Apricot Nail and Cuticle Oil ($10) to prevent cracking and drying. “Regularly apply cuticle oil or thick hand cream to keep them hydrated, and always use gloves when doing household chores or rough work to protect your hands,” says Dr. Garshick.

Is it safe to cut cuticles?

According to the experts it is not recommended Cutting cuticles as this can lead to infections and other complications. “Research has found that cutting cuticles can erode the protective barrier they provide, increasing the risk of bacterial and fungal infections,” says Dr. Garshick, similar to what tearing can do. Ask your technician when you’re at the salon to gently push back the cuticles and provide them with sufficient moisture. “It’s okay to trim if they look overgrown, but don’t cut the cuticle too much,” adds Dr. Perkins.

How to Remove Cuticles Safely

Although there’s no safe way to remove cuticles completely, the experts say instead of recommend pushing them back. “First, put your hands in warm soapy water to soften the skin. Then gently push back the cuticles with a wooden or rubber cuticle stick” says Dr. Garshick. It is important not to use too much force. Finish applying cuticle oil and a moisturizing hand or foot cream to keep them hydrated.

How do you know if cuticles are infected?

Your cuticles can become infected and according to Dr. Perkins, the symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, warmth and sometimes pus. She explains that this can happen with inadequate nail care or poor hygiene. “If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to treat the infection immediately,” adds Dr. Garshick. If your cuticles are infected, soak the area in warm water several times a day and apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment. “If the infection persists or worsens, seek medical attention from a healthcare professional,” notes Dr. Garshick op.

How to protect cuticles in summer

In the summer, your feet are more exposed (think sandals, pools, sand, etc.), which can expose you to infections if your cuticles are damaged. Our experts recommend avoiding cutting the cuticles (re-soften them and push them back if you want to clean them up). Then, use sunscreen to protect your cuticles in the summer, especially if you wear sandals, says Dr. Perkins. It is also important to apply cuticle oil daily. “Oils will be absorbed more efficiently than creams, but any quantity of moisturizer is better than none when it comes to cuticles,” she says.

How can I prevent cuticle damage?

To prevent damage to the cuticles, experts recommend moisturizing them and avoiding harsh chemicals. “It’s also important not to bite or pick at your cuticles and nails,” says Dr. Garshick. When removing nail polish, avoid acetone remover as it can also dry out the cuticles.

Last takeaway

Cuticles protect new nail growth, so it’s important to care for them with moisturizing cuticle oil and avoid cutting them off. If the cuticles are infected, they become red and inflamed, and it is important to treat them with an over-the-counter antibiotic if this is the case. Protect your cuticles in the summer with sunscreen and oils, and avoid harsh soaps and acetone to prevent drying. “Maintaining healthy cuticles is essential for overall nail health,” says Dr. Garshick, and trust that your nails will be much better for it.