The cuticle is the layer of skin that is right at the base of the nail. This layer is usually cut off during manicures and pedicures. However, cutting the cuticle can lead to bacterial and fungal infections. you know. Therefore, you are advised not to cut it.
The cuticle is located in the path of nail growth and serves to protect the newly growing nail from bacterial infection. The area around the cuticle is also very delicate, making it prone to damage, dryness, and infection.
In order to maintain healthy cuticles, you are advised not to cut, cut, damage, tear, scrape, or remove cuticles, either independently or when doing nail care.
The Risks of Cutting Cuticles
Although cutting cuticles can make nails look more beautiful, but the risk of infection with bacteria actually becomes higher. One of the infections caused by cutting the cuticle is paronychia.
This nail infection is usually caused by bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. However, chronic paronychia can be caused by a fungal infection. There are several main symptoms of paronychia, including:
- Swelling and redness of the skin around the nails
- Blisters filled with pus appear around the nails
- Changes in the shape, color and texture of nails
- Nails come off easily
Paronychia can develop along the surface of the nail and the condition will get worse if not treated immediately. You may experience other symptoms, such as fever, chills, joint pain, and muscle aches as the paronychia gets worse.
In addition, cutting cuticles can also cause wavy nails which can actually spoil the appearance of your nails.
How to Take Care of Cuticles
To prevent nail deformities due to infection or inflammation, it is important to maintain good health and care for the cuticles. Here are some ways to treat cuticles:
- Use a nail polish remover that doesn't contain acetone to keep your nails from drying out.
- Trim your nails regularly.
- Use a nail file to smooth the rough edges of the nail.
- Apply nail hardener to strengthen nails.
- Keep the cuticle moist by applying a moisturizer in the form of an ointment, cream, or petroleum jelly regularly.
- Use gloves when washing clothes and household furniture so that the cuticles are protected from irritating chemicals.
- Stop the habit of biting your nails.
If you're doing a nail treatment at the salon, be it a manicure or pedicure, tell the salon not to cut your cuticles or just push the cuticles gently and slowly.
However, if you still want to cut your cuticles, there are some tips you can try to keep your nails from getting damaged and avoiding infection, namely:
- Start by soaking your nails in warm water.
- Apply a cuticle remover or moisturizer if your cuticles look dry.
- Gently push the cuticles using a cuticle pusher along the nail bed.
- Trim excess skin and nail nodules.
- Make sure not to cut the entire cuticle.
When deciding to use the services of a beauty salon or nail salon, make sure you choose a salon that is licensed and kept clean. Also try to bring your own manicures and pedicures to prevent infections that can arise.
If you have mild paronychia, you can treat it with home care. The trick, soak the infected nail with warm water several times a day, then dry thoroughly.
If paronychia does not improve, you can take antibiotics or antifungal drugs as prescribed by your doctor. Treatment for paronychia can last from a few weeks to several months.
Maintaining healthy cuticles is as important as maintaining the health of other body parts. If your cuticles are sore, painful, swollen, or pus-filled, consult a doctor immediately to get the right treatment.