WEEKLY TIPS FOR YOUR HAIR, SKIN AND NAILS

CARING FOR YOUR CUTICLES

Cuticles are often overlooked details but as delicate as they are, they have an important role as they protect and keep the nail beds strong and healthy. If your cuticles are weakened, they won’t only cause discomfort and pain, but they also make your nails brittle.

Plus, we all know how unsightly those dry, torn cuticles often referred to as ditima ntja can be. There are many myths on what causes dry and torn cuticles, but factually, it is often because of lack of moisturising, limited nutrients and poor care.

Taking care of your cuticles does not only result in visually appealing hands but also protects the skin around the nails.

TIPS FOR CARING FOR YOUR CUTICLES:

*Moisturise your hands regularly with any good quality cream, especially after washing your hands.

*Steer clear of drying agents such as rough cleaning detergents. If you do use them, make sure that you wash your hands clean and moisturise your hands when you are done.

*Avoid biting your nails or eating your hands. *About once a week, soak your hands in warm soapy water for about 10 minutes. This will soften the cuticles and also clean your nails. After that, moisturise your hands with a hand cream or oil. On some days you can even go to bed with socks on your hands to ensure that you lock in the moisture into your skin.

*As tempting as it is, never cut or tear your cuticles. Just keep moisturising your hands and soften them until they fall off.

*Limit manicures and the application of nail polish to special occasions. And when you do have a manicure, make sure it is done by a professional, and that you avoid removing it with acetone-based nail polish remover.

*Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands regularly and dry carefully, to keep your fingernails dry and clean. This will prevent bacteria from growing under your fingernails.

*Keep your nails well-trimmed. Cut and file your nails as often as possible. Remember that the nails should be filed in one direction. You could also consider buffing as it gives your finger nails a good shine and smooth look.

*Invest in a moisturising hand cream and a cuticle cream. Pick products with ingredients such as Vitamins A, C and E as they feed nutrients into your skin to nourish and strengthen the skin around the nails. Also consider products with oils such as almond, coconut and sunflower oil because they will soften and moisturise your skin.