Nail Care

How to Treat Dry Cuticles

Got nail problems? Our team at OPI is here to help you handle all of your nail emergencies. On a mission to help you get your nails healthy, we’re busting myths about every manicure ailment to help you find a surprisingly easy solution with our treatment range. Our focus today is how to treat dry cuticles, or dry skin around the nail. During winter, or any time the temperature decides to plummet, skin exposed to the elements takes a beating and we’re here to help.

What Should You Be Looking At?

The cuticle sits atop your nail. It’s actually an extension of your skin and it protects your nails by acting as a barrier for bacteria. You can tell if your cuticles are dry if they’re flaking, cracked, or peeling. If you notice this then take action fast as cracked and peeling cuticles may allow bacteria to enter your nails and cause an infection.

What Causes Dry Cuticles?

Dry cuticles can come from multiple factors. During the winter, cold weather coupled with dry indoor heat, as well as several possible internal factors can contribute to your less-than-stellar nail beds. We recommend taking a moment and identifying possible cuticle culprits that are simple fixes. Look at the cleaning products you use on a regular basis, because they can intensify dryness. Do you spend time working outside? Also, how hydrated are you on a daily basis? All these small factors can contribute to dry cuticles.

How to Treat Dry Cuticles

1. Use a good hand and nail moisturising cream daily. Winter and dry skin unfortunately go hand in hand, so on a chilly day we recommend carrying ProSpa Protective Hand Serum with you. Don’t forget to add a spritz of Moisture Bonding Ceramide Spray to keep hands smooth.

2. Hydrate, hydrate, and then hydrate some more. Water intake is vital for healthy skin, so carry a bottle with you at all times. If indoor heating is drying out your skin, it may be worth investing in a humidifier too.

3. Keep your cuticles pushed back. This can help prevent skin tearing and pulling behind the cuticle line. To do this, grab your OPI Exfoliating Cuticle Cream and apply a small amount to each nail, leaving it for at least 30 seconds. Take a reusable cuticle stick and push back the cuticle on each nail. Once you’ve done this, wipe away the loosened cuticle. We don’t recommend picking at your cuticles, so only carefully trim any excess skin if you really have to.

4. Wear gloves. When it comes to washing dishes or submerging your hands in water, reach for a pair of rubber gloves beforehand. Water and detergent can dry out your hands, and cause your cuticles further problems.

5. Go chemical free. Harsh soaps, hand sanitizers, and nail polish removers can dry out your cuticles. Try to swap your products for cleansing oils when washing your hands and avoid alcohol-based sanitisers.

6. Get the prep work in now. If you’re already showing signs of dry winter skin, treat yourself before it’s too late. In your shower, use Micro Exfoliating Hand Polish to buff away any dry and cracked skin. Rinse and pat dry before applying Protective Hand and Cuticle Cream and massaging it gently into your hands and nails, then finish with our hydrating ProSpa Nail and Cuticle Oil for an extra hit of luxe.

7. Up your vitamins. Cracked cuticles may be a sign of Zinc or Vitamin E deficiency. Reverse this problem by eating more foods rich in essential omega 3’s like spinach, salmon, and other seafoods. If your nails are brittle, explore biotin supplements.

These tips and tricks should have your cuticles back to hydrated and healthy in no time. Keep visiting the OPI blog for more OPI Nails 101 sessions, because we want to make sure that your nails are as #OPIObsessed as you are. Sign up for emails here to be the first to know about new collections and exclusive events.