Do you need to trim your cuticles when doing a manicure?

The manicure procedure includes many important aspects, and one of the most discussed issues is the need to remove the cuticle. This question does not have a clear answer, since preferences depend on the individual characteristics of the client and the condition of the nails.

Manicure experts note that the cuticle plays a protective role, preventing bacteria and dirt from getting under the nail. Therefore, its removal should be thoughtful and careful so as not to disturb the natural barrier and not damage the nail plate. Here are some key points to consider.

What is a cuticle?

The cuticle is a thin layer of skin that surrounds the base of the nail plate. Its main function is to protect the nail growth area from bacteria, infections, and contaminants. The cuticle consists of two layers:

1. Eponychium - the upper visible layer that seals the nail matrix area, preventing pathogens from getting in.

2. Pterygium - the lower layer, which is thickened white plates that grow along with the nail.

Both layers of the cuticle play an important role in protecting the nail plate and nourishing it. Partial renewal of the cuticle occurs in about 2 weeks, and complete renewal takes about 21 days.

If the cuticle is not regularly cared for, it can grow on the surface of the nail. During a manicure, the cuticle can be treated in one of the following ways:

- Trimming. Removing excess cuticle using manicure tools.
- Removing with special products. Using chemicals to gently dissolve the cuticle.
- Pushing back. Gently pushing the cuticle away from the surface of the nail using a special tool.

Should I trim my cuticle when doing a manicure?

The choice between a manicure with cuticle trimming and simply pushing it back depends on the client's preferences and can vary from person to person.

In fact, despite popular opinion, trimming the cuticle can be acceptable and even recommended in some cases. The main thing is to do this procedure correctly.

Trimming the cuticle should not be done on living tissue, but on dead epithelium. After such treatment, an eponychium remains - a thin protective layer that seals the matrix area and protects it from the penetration of pathogenic agents.

Correct and safe trimming of the cuticle is possible only with the use of appropriate tools and techniques. Professional masters have the necessary skills and tools to make a neat manicure and minimize the risk of damage.

Removing dead skin from the nail surface is usually safe and does not affect the cuticle or the nail itself. Cuticle growth is a normal protective response of the body to pathogens.

If the nail plate is cleaned thoroughly and the cuticle is removed correctly, this will not lead to its excessive growth in the future and will not affect the structure of the nail.

However, cuticle removal is contraindicated for people with diabetes and those whose blood vessels are located close to the cuticle area.

In what situations can the cuticle be damaged?

If the cuticle is not sufficiently moisturized, it can become dry and begin to peel off from the nail plate. Improper cuticle care can lead to cracks and painful sensations on the nails, deterioration in the appearance of the manicure, and an increased risk of infection with pathogenic bacteria and inflammation.

When the cuticle begins to grow, the rate of growth of the nail plate can slow down, and irregularities and transverse grooves can appear on its surface.

Here are several reasons that can lead to damage to the cuticle:

- Lack of cuticle care;
- Allergic reactions to chemical or cosmetic products;
- Using unsterilized tools;
- Onychophagia (nail biting);
- Working in contact with water and aggressive chemicals;
- Injuries during a manicure.

Cuticle Removal Methods

Proper nail and cuticle care is essential to prevent damage. Improper use of files and tools can lead to splitting, thinning and brittle nails. Therefore, basic manicure courses are indispensable - YouTube video tutorials cannot replace professional training, which includes proper cuticle care methods and nail plate preparation.

It is important to use only high-quality and professional tools that must be sterilized and disinfected. It is not recommended to use regular nippers or cuticle nippers purchased in non-specialized stores. Such tools are often designed to cut nails, not skin, and can damage the cuticle due to poorly sharpened blades.