💅 How to Push Back Cuticles

 

 

Table of Contents

 

- Introduction

- What are Cuticles and Why Push Them Back?

- Necessary Tools and Supplies 

- Step-by-Step Instructions

- Cuticle Soaking Tips and Tricks

- Applying Cuticle Remover

- Pushing Back the Cuticles

- Trimming Excess Cuticles

- Cleaning Up and Moisturizing

- Creating the Perfect Cuticle Pushing Environment

- Proper Cuticle Care After Pushing

- Weekly Cuticle Maintenance Regimen

- Common Cuticle Pushing Mistakes to Avoid

- Signs You Need a Professional Manicure

- FAQs

 

 💡 Introduction

 

Pushing back cuticles is an essential part of nail grooming and maintenance. Overgrown, ragged cuticles can harbor dirt and bacteria, leading to unsightly and unhealthy nails.

 

While cuticles serve an important protective purpose, keeping them neatly pushed back and trimmed ensures your nails remain clean and infection-free. It also gives your hands a tidy, polished look.

 

Pushing back cuticles may seem intimidating, but these step-by-step instructions will teach you how to easily and safely push back cuticles in the comfort of your own home. With the right tools, techniques, patience and proper aftercare, you can master this important nail care skill. 

 

In this comprehensive, we will cover everything you need to know about properly pushing back pesky cuticles for beautiful, healthy nails. You'll learn about the purpose of cuticles, gathering the necessary supplies, a foolproof technique for pushing back cuticles, aftercare tips, a weekly maintenance plan, common mistakes to avoid, and so much more.

 

So, soak those cuticles and get ready to have the most flawless, envy-worthy nails on the block! It's time to transform your nail care routine.

 

 What are Cuticles and Why Push Them Back?

 

Before we dive into the how-to, let's start with the basics - what exactly are cuticles? And why is it so important to keep them pushed back?

 

 What Are Cuticles?

 

Your cuticles are the thin layer of sturdy, protective skin that frames and seals the base of your nails. They extend from the base of the nail out onto the skin of your fingers and toes.

 

Cuticles are composed of dead skin cells bonded together to form a tough, waterproof barrier. This barrier is sometimes called the eponychium.

 

The main functions of cuticles are:

 

- Protecting the newly formed nail plate as it grows out from the nail matrix

 

- Preventing bacteria, fungi and other microbes from entering and infecting the area under the nail

 

- Locking in moisture and preventing the nail plate from becoming dry and brittle

 

- Providing a smooth transition between the nail plate and finger/toe skin

 

Cuticles are constantly growing, shedding dead skin cells, and rejuvenating. The cuticle area renews itself approximately every 28 days. 

 

 Why Push Back Cuticles?

 

While cuticles play an important protective role, they can unfortunately become overgrown. This leads to a number of issues:

 

- Visual Appeal - Overgrown cuticles simply don't look very neat or tidy. Pushing them back creates a clean canvas for perfectly polished nails.

 

- Debris Accumulation - Long cuticles allow dirt, oil, and germs to collect in the nail folds. This buildup is unsanitary and unattractive. 

 

- Infections - Trapped debris under long cuticles is the perfect breeding ground for nail infections. Preventing this is key.

 

- Hangnails - Overgrown cuticles easily snag and tear leading to painful hangnails. Pushing them back helps avoid this.

 

- Nail Polish Application - Painting nails is much tidier when cuticles aren't overgrown. Polish looks smooth and professional.

 

- Improved Circulation - Pushing back cuticles may help improve blood circulation to the fingers and toes. Proper circulation is vital for healthy nails.

 

Regular cuticle maintenance is absolutely essential for cosmetic and medical reasons. While they protect our nails, we must also protect our cuticles.

 

 Necessary Tools and Supplies

 

Pushing back cuticles is easy and painless with the proper tools readily available. Here are the key supplies you'll want to have on hand:

 

 Cuticle Remover

 

A liquid cuticle remover helps soften and dissolve the hardened dead skin around nails, prepping them for pushing. Look for a remover containing hydrating ingredients like oils, aloe, glycerin, or vitamin E.

 

Apply a few drops around each nail before pushing back cuticles. Never apply remover onto live skin. Popular options are the Sally Hansen Instant Cuticle Remover or Blue Cross Cuticle Remover Pen.

 

 Cuticle Pusher/Stick

 

This is arguably the most important tool for safe, successful cuticle pushing. Choose a pusher with a flat, gently curved or angled tip. Many have a wooden or plastic handle with a metal pusher end.

 

This will allow you to slide the pusher along the nail folds, gently pressing back cuticles without damaging the surrounding skin. High-quality stainless steel cuticle pushers are a great choice.

 

 Cuticle Nippers/Clippers

 

Tiny cuticle nipper clippers are useful for nipping off any dead cuticle skin remaining after pushing back. Look for ultra-sharp nippers designed specifically for cuticles. Never use these tools to cut live skin.

 

The Tweezerman Cuticle Nipper is a top choice. Make sure to sterilize nippers before each use.

 

 Cuticle Oil

 

Massaging moisturizing oil into the nail beds and cuticles post-grooming helps condition and prevent cracking. Look for oils containing vitamin E, jojoba, coconut, lemon, or avocado. Apply and gently rub into each nail. 

 

 Emery Board

 

An emery board nail file lets you gently buff any jagged edges around nails for a smooth finish. Look for boards with fine grit designed specifically for nail care use.

 

 Hand Lotion

 

Finish up with a rich, hydrating hand lotion or cream. Cuticle pushing can dry out the skin, so nourishing moisture is key. Avoid smelly or colored lotions.

 

 Towels

 

Have some clean hand towels on standby. You'll need them for drying hands post-soaking, wiping away excess cuticle remover, and moisturizer cleanup.

 

 Tweezers

 

A pair of slanted tweezers can be helpful for plucking away any loose tags of skin. Make sure to sterilize them first in rubbing alcohol.

 

 Toothpick

 

Use a toothpick or orangewood stick to gently nudge back swollen cuticles and remove debris from under free edges of nails.

 

 Cuticle Softening Soak

 

An alternative to standalone cuticle remover is to soak nails in a bowl of warm water mixed with a moisturizing oil or bath salts. This helps prep your cuticles for pushing. 

 

 Magnifying Lamp

 

A lighted magnifying glass lets you get up close to clearly see each tiny cuticle. It takes the guesswork out of proper pushing.

 

 Sterilizing Supplies

 

You'll need rubbing alcohol, cotton pads/swabs, and ziplock bags to properly sterilize and store any metal tools between uses. Avoid infections!

 

 Step-by-Step Instructions

 

Now that you're armed with the proper supplies, let's go through the foolproof techniques for safely pushing back cuticles:

 

 Step 1: Soak the Nails

 

- Fill a small bowl with warm water and soak nails for 5-10 minutes. The warmth will soften and prime cuticles for pushing.

 

- For extra softening power, add a teaspoon of oil like olive or coconut oil into the water. A squirt of hand soap also helps emulsify cuticles.

 

- Massage cuticles gently with fingertips while soaking to increase circulation and loosen skin.

 

- Soak each hand for at least 5 minutes. Use this time to relax and destress!

 

 Step 2: Apply Cuticle Remover

 

- Once nails are softened, dry hands and wipe off any oil from soaking.

 

- Use a cotton swab to apply cuticle remover cream around the base of each nail.

 

- Ensure remover only touches dead cuticle skin, not any live skin which could become irritated.

 

- Let the remover sit for 60 seconds before moving onto the next step. This gives it time to dissolve the cuticles.

 

 Step 3: Push Back the Cuticles

 

- Slide the curved, flat end of your cuticle pusher tool gently underneath each wetted cuticle, one nail at a time.

 

- Apply light pressure and push the cuticle back, exposing the new nail growth underneath.

 

- Push back fully but gently - don't force anything. Pain means you are pushing too hard.

 

- Wrap a tissue around the pusher tip as needed to absorb excess cuticle remover and give you a better grip.

 

- Take your time and be meticulous about each cuticle - don't rush this important step!

 

 Step 4: Clip any Excess Cuticles

 

- Inspect each nail after pushing back cuticles. Look for any loose tags or overgrown bits of dead skin.

 

- Use sterile cuticle nipper clippers to carefully snip away any of these excess bits of hard, dead cuticle.

 

- Avoid nipping any live skin - this can lead to infection. Only remove fully dead, dangling skin.

 

- Disinfect nippers with an alcohol pad after each nail to avoid spreading germs. Take care not to clip skin.

 

 Step 5: Clean Up

 

- Use a dry, clean towel to gently wipe away any remaining cuticle remover cream from the nail plates and surrounding skin.

 

- Be thorough - remover left on skin can dry it out. Get every last bit with your towel.

 

- Rinse hands under warm water and pat dry. This washes away residue and preps nails for moisturizing. 

 

 Step 6: Apply Cuticle Oil

 

- Put a few drops of nourishing cuticle oil onto each nail bed. Use less oil for thin, straight nails.

 

- With a light touch, gently massage the oil into the nail beds and surrounding skin to hydrate cuticles.

 

- Allow the oil to fully absorb into cuticles for 2-3 minutes before rinsing/wiping away excess oil.

 

 Step 7: Buff Nails

 

- Use a fine-grit emery board to gently buff the edges of each nail. Buff in one direction - base to tip.

 

- This smoothes out any roughness or snags left from pushing back cuticles.

 

- Be very gentle - only light pressure needed. Harsh buffing can damage thin nails.

 

 Step 8: Moisturize Hands

 

- Finish by massaging in a rich hand cream or lotion all over the hands, nails, and cuticles.

 

- This hydrates and nourishes, preventing dryness caused by soaking and cuticle removers.

 

- Allow the moisturizer to absorb fully before rinsing any excess off the nails.

 

And that covers the full cuticle pushing process from start to finish! With practice, you'll get it down to a science. Time to reveal beautiful cuticles!

 

 Cuticle Soaking Tips and Tricks

 

Let's go over some handy soaking tips to maximize cuticle softening and prep nails for painless pushing:

 

 Water Temperature

 

- Warm, not hot water is best. Heat dries out nails. 100-110 F is optimal. If it feels hot on your skin, it's too hot for your nails!

 

 Soaking Duration

 

- Aim for 5-10 minutes per soak. Quick dips don't provide enough time for cuticles to soften.

 

 Add Moisturizing Ingredients

 

- Mix in a teaspoon of oil like olive, coconut or argan oil into the water to hydrate cuticles.

 

- A squirt of hand soap or oatmeal bath powder boosts softening power.

 

- Avoid soaps with dyes, perfumes or chemicals that may irritate skin.

 

 Soak Before Pushing

 

- Time your cuticle soak right before you plan to push them back for maximum softening impact.

 

 Soak Entire Nails

 

- Immerse entire nails in the water, not just the tips. Softening cuticles requires the base of nails to soak.

 

 Rub and Massage

 

- Gently massage and rub cuticles while soaking to increase circulation and relax the skin.

 

 Exfoliate First

 

- For best results, exfoliate hands with a scrub before soaking to remove dead skin and allow better absorption.

 

 Just Hands

 

- Avoid soaking feet at the same time to prevent transferring fungus or bacteria between toes and finger nails.

 

 Dry Thoroughly

 

- Pat nails completely dry before applying cuticle remover to avoid diluting it.

 

With these handy tricks, your cuticle soaking sessions will help prep nails for easy, painless pushing.

 

 Applying Cuticle Remover

 

Applying cuticle remover properly is key to softening cuticles for pushing. Follow these application tips:

 

 Cotton Swab Application

 

- Dip a cotton swab into the remover and use it to precisely apply the product around each nail bed.

 

- Swab application prevents getting remover where it's not wanted. No mess, no waste!

 

 Avoid Skin Contact

 

- Take care that remover only touches the dead cuticle skin and avoids contact with live skin. This prevents irritation.

 

 Let It Sit

 

- Allow remover to sit for 60 seconds before pushing back cuticles. This gives the active ingredients time to work.

 

 Reapply as Needed

 

- If cuticles still feel tough, reapply remover and let sit again. Multiple applications may be needed for thick cuticles.

 

 Watch For Irritation

 

- Discontinue use if you notice any burning, redness or itching and wash skin immediately. You may be sensitive to an ingredient.

 

 Remover Types

 

- Gel removers are thicker and stay put compared to liquids. However, liquids penetrate faster. Try both kinds.

 

 Don't Overuse

 

- Avoid using remover more than 1-2x per week max. Too much can dry out and damage nail beds.

 

 Clean Nails

 

- Always start with clean nails free of old polish, oil, etc. This allows remover maximum impact on cuticles.

 

With the right remover strategy, your cuticles will be ready for painless pushing! 

 

 Pushing Back the Cuticles

 

Pushing is a crucial cuticle grooming step. Follow these tips for safe, successful pushing:

 

 Tool Angle

 

- Position pusher at a 45 degree angle to avoid scraping skin. Go parallel to the nail groove.

 

 Curve Following

 

- Allow the pusher tip to follow the natural curve of your nail bed as you push. Don't force it straight back.

 

 Pressure

 

- Apply firm, but gentle steady pressure as you push. Never force or tear at the cuticles.

 

 Tool Grip 

 

- Hold the pusher tool between your thumb and index finger as you would a pencil for optimal control.

 

 Beware of Pain

 

- Pushing should never hurt. Pain means you are damaging skin and need to ease up pressure.

 

 Focus on One Nail

 

- Push back one entire nail's cuticle fully before moving onto the next nail. Don't jump around.

 

 Wash Tool

 

- Wipe pusher tip clean on a paper towel between uses on different hands to avoid spreading germs.

 

 Remove Excess

 

- Have a tissue handy to wipe away excess cuticle remover as you push. This gives the pusher better traction.

 

 Seek Problem Areas

 

- Check for stuck cuticles after pushing and use a folded tissue to free them. Target any problem spots. 

 

 Check Under Nails

 

- Inspect under the nail plate as you push to remove any debris stuck under free edges caught by cuticles.

 

With a light touch and the right technique, pushing can be painless. Take it slow and steady.

 

 Trimming Excess Cuticles

 

Once cuticles are pushed back, carefully trim any remaining dead skin:

 

 Nipper Grip

 

- Hold nippers between thumb and forefinger for stability. Use your other hand to hold the finger being nipped.

 

 Small Nips

 

- Make small snips - don't try to cut off too much at once. This avoids painfully nipping live skin.

 

 One Hand at a Time

 

- Complete trimming on one entire hand before switching to the other. Don't bounce back and forth.

 

 Pull Skin Taut

 

- Gently pull dead skin outward with tweezers to make it easier to grip and snip with nippers.

 

 Disinfect Between Nails

 

- Wipe nipper blades with alcohol between trimming each nail to prevent transferring germs.

 

 Don't Over-trim

 

- Only remove fully dead, hanging skin. Never nip off live skin as this will be painful and bleed.

 

 No Cutting Calluses

 

- Very thick, hardened calluses need professional removal. Don't try to cut these at home.

 

 Toenail Caution

 

- Take extra care trimming toenails which are thicker. Get professional pedicures if needed.

 

With care and sterilization, trimming excess cuticles will be quick and painless. Take time and don't rush.

 

 Cleaning Up and Moisturizing

 

Finishing cuticle care strong is key for beautiful results:

 

 Cuticle Remover Cleanup

 

- Use a dry, lint-free towel to thoroughly wipe away all remaining cuticle remover from the nail plate and surrounding skin.

 

 Wash Away Residue

 

- Rinse nails under warm water after pushing back cuticles and trimming to remove any leftover residue or debris.

 

 Dry Thoroughly 

 

- Pat nails completely dry with a clean towel after rinsing off residue. Moisture will dilute the cuticle oil.

 

 Apply Cuticle Oil

 

- Place a small drop of cuticle oil at the base of each nail after pushing them back. Less oil is needed for thin nails.

 

- With gentle, rubbing motions, work the oil into the nail plates and surrounding skin.

 

- Allow oil to absorb for 2-3 minutes before wiping away any excess with a cotton pad.

 

 Select Oil Carefully

 

- Look for cuticle oils containing moisturizing ingredients like vitamin E, coconut, jojoba, or lemon oil. Avoid scented, dyed oils.

 

 Oil Application Tip

 

- Apply oil with a disposable mascara wand for precise, mess-free application. Q-tips also work.

 

 Don't Over-oil

 

- Applying too much oil can leave an oily residue on the nails that attracts dirt. A little goes a long way.

 

 Let Oil Absorb 

 

- Allow a few minutes for the cuticle oil to fully penetrate before rinsing or wiping nails. This prevents removing it too quickly.

 

 Moisturize Nails

 

- Finish with a rich hand cream, rubbing it into the nails, cuticles, and skin. This prevents dryness from soaking and pushing.

 

 Avoid Scented Lotions

 

- Steer clear of fragranced or colored lotions which can stain nails. Seek out gentle, scent-free formulas.

 

 Exfoliate Skin

 

- Use an exfoliating scrub on hands a few times per week to slough off dead skin and improve cuticle health.

 

 Buff Nails

 

- Gently buff nails with a fine-grit emery board after cuticle maintenance to smooth edges. Avoid over-buffing.

 

 Creating the Perfect Cuticle Pushing Environment

 

Your setup can have a big impact on cuticle pushing success. Follow these tips to create the ideal environment:

 

 Clean Workspace

 

- Choose a clean table or desk where you can spread out supplies without clutter. Organize materials in sequence of use.

 

 Proper Lighting 

 

- Ensure the workspace has excellent bright lighting so you can see every cuticle. Use a ring light or lamp if needed.

 

 Magnifying Glass

 

- A lighted magnifying glass lets you get up close to clearly see cuticles. It prevents mistakes.

 

 Comfortable Seating

 

- Sit in a chair that allows you to rest arms flat on the table with hands facing up. Don't hunch over.

 

 Limit Distractions

 

- Turn off screens and loud music so you can focus fully on precision cuticle work. Don't rush the process.

 

 Hand Support

 

- Place a rolled up towel under the hand not being worked on to keep it stable, relaxed and at an angle.

 

 Proper Ventilation

 

- Ensure the room has adequate airflow to prevent inhaling fumes from chemical removers. Open a window.

 

 Sterilize Tools 

 

- Before each session, sterilize any metal tools like nippers and pushers with alcohol. Prevent infections.

 

 Soft Cotton Towels

 

- Stock up on soft, absorbent (but lint-free) towels to blot oil, soak nails, and wipe away excess products.

 

 Make It Relaxing

 

- Play soothing music, light candles, or diffuse essential oils to create a relaxing vibe perfect for pampering yourself!

 

With the right setup, you'll look forward to cuticle pushing instead of dreading it. Take time to create a serene space.

 

 Proper Cuticle Care After Pushing

 

Consistent aftercare keeps cuticles healthy between pushing sessions:

 

 Hydrate With Oil

 

- Massage in cuticle oil twice daily to nourish cuticles and prevent dry peeling skin after initial pushing.

 

 Wear Gloves

 

- When doing housework or washing dishes, wear rubber gloves to protect pushed-back cuticles from damage.

 

 Apply Nail Strengtheners 

 

- For weak, brittle nails, use a nail strengthening polish regularly to condition nails. This prevents cracks near cuticles.

 

 Use a Nail Brush

 

- When washing hands, scrub nails daily with a stiff nail brush to remove debris trapped under free edges.

 

 Avoid Harsh Soaps

 

- Steer clear of drying bar soaps or fragranced liquid hand soaps. Seek out moisturizing cleansers.

 

 Take Biotin

 

- Taking a biotin supplement can help strengthen and improve overall nail health between cuticle grooming.

 

 Monitor for Infections

 

- Watch for any redness, swelling or pus which could indicate a bacterial infection and require antibiotic treatment.

 

 Eat Nail-Healthy Foods

 

- Incorporate foods high in vitamins and nutrients that support nail health like salmon, nuts and spinach.

 

 Limit Chemical Exposure

 

- Wear gloves when using household cleaners and avoid prolonged wet work to protect cuticle skin.

 

 Quit Biting Nails

 

- Kicking a nail biting habit prevents tearing cuticles with teeth and introducing bacteria.

 

 Schedule Professional Care

 

- Get bi-monthly professional manicures to trim cuticles once they start getting overly long in between.

 

Proper aftercare maintains results and keeps cuticles in top shape!

 

 Weekly Cuticle Maintenance Regimen

 

For best cuticle health, make their care a regular habit: 

 

 Sunday Scrub

 

- Give yourself a hand and cuticle treatment by exfoliating with a scrub to smooth skin.

 

 Monday Soak

 

- Soak nails in a hydrating bath and gently push back overgrown cuticles after softening them.

 

 Tuesday Oil

 

- Massage in vitamin E cuticle oil to nourish cuticles post-pushing.

 

 Wednesday Recovery

 

- Give cuticles a break to heal after pushing them back. Just apply oil and hand cream.

 

 Thursday Gloves

 

- Protect pushed-back cuticles by wearing gloves for household chores. Prevent chemical and water damage.

 

 Friday Brush

 

- Use a stiff nail brush while washing hands to keep nails and cuticles debris-free.

 

 Saturday Polish

 

- Treat yourself by booking a manicure to professionally trim overgrown cuticles and polish nails.

 

By dedicating time to cuticle care each week, you'll have gorgeous, healthy, well-maintained nails!

 

 Common Cuticle Pushing Mistakes to Avoid

 

It's easy to make missteps when pushing cuticles. Steer clear of these common blunders:

 

 Pushing Too Aggressively

 

Ease up on pressure - pushing should never hurt or tear skin. Take it slow.

 

 Tearing at Cuticles

 

Don’t pick, pull, rip or force cuticles. Gently push only.

 

 Cutting Live Skin

 

Never nip living skin - this causes bleeding and infections.

 

 Reusing Grungy Tools

 

Always sterilize and replace worn tools to avoid spreading bacteria.

 

 Applying Products to Skin

 

Avoid getting remover or oil on live skin which can irritate.

 

 Clipping Hangnails Too Short

 

Never clip or cut hangnails - trim only dead cuticle skin.

 

 Rushing the Process

 

Take your time and don’t rush delicate cuticle work.

 

 Forgetting Moisturizer

 

Hydrate often with creams and oils to prevent brittle, dry cuticles.

 

 Skipping Hand Scrubs

 

Exfoliate hands regularly to prevent buildup of dead skin on cuticles.

 

 Using Harsh Soaps

 

Avoid drying antibacterial and fragranced soaps which deplete moisture.

 

 Biting or Picking Cuticles

 

Stop nail biting and picking which leads to red, sore cuticles prone to infection.

 

 Ignoring Signs of Infection

 

Watch for unusual swelling, redness or discharge indicating infection requiring antibiotic treatment.

 

Take your time and implement proper techniques to avoid these common pitfalls!

 

 Signs You Need a Professional Manicure

 

While you can safely care for cuticles at home, certain circumstances call for letting the pros handle it:

 

- Severe nail infections or stubborn fungi under or around the nails

- Highly thickened, ingrown or deformed cuticles

- Severe nail damage, splits or cracks from improper tools

- Chronic nail-biting, picking or skin/nail conditions like psoriasis 

- Extremely brittle, splitting nails

- Allergic reactions to over-the-counter cuticle products

- Diabetes or circulation issues affecting the fingers

- Autoimmune disorders like lupus impacting nails

- History of keloid scarring or frequent bleeding

- Numerous painful hangnails

 

Don't risk complications - schedule an appointment with your dermatologist or nail technician if any of the above apply to you. They can safely remove problem cuticles.

 

 FAQs

 

Let's answer some frequently asked questions about properly pushing back cuticles:

 

 How often should you push back the cuticles?

 

Aim to push back cuticles once every 1-2 weeks for maintenance. Those with fast-growing cuticles may need to do it weekly.

 

 How can I soften my cuticles at home before pushing them back?

 

Soak nails in warm water mixed with a teaspoon of moisturizing oil for 5-10 minutes. You can also apply petroleum jelly or cuticle remover before pushing.

 

 Should I push back my cuticles before or after showering?

 

Either works! Soaking cuticles in the warm shower water helps soften them up nicely for pushing.

 

 Can I just use an orange stick instead of a proper cuticle pusher tool?

 

Yes, you can use a wooden orange stick in place of a pusher. However, metal pushers are less likely to break and splinter.

 

 What’s the best way to avoid infection when I nip my cuticles?

 

Always thoroughly clean under nail free edges. Apply antibiotic ointment to any nicks. Keep the area dry and clean while healing.

 

 Is it safe to cut off thick, dead cuticle skin?

 

You can carefully snip off any loose, excess fully dead skin with sterile nippers. Never cut live skin, only dead skin.

 

 Should I push back my cuticles or trim off loose skin first?

 

Always push back the cuticles first to separate the dead skin that can be trimmed off from the living skin.

 

 Can I use cuticle remover on my nails daily?

 

It’s best to only use cuticle remover weekly when you plan to push them back. Using it daily may dry out nails.

 

 What should I do if I accidentally cut my cuticles too short?

 

Dab on some antibiotic ointment and cover with a bandaid until healed to prevent infection. Keep the area clean.

 

 How long does it take for cuticles to grow back after you’ve pushed them back?

 

Cuticles will start growing out again in just 3 to 5 days typically. Plan to maintain them weekly.

 

 How can I avoid getting remover on my skin when pushing cuticles?

 

Use a cotton swab for precise application only on the cuticle. Rinse immediately if any gets elsewhere.

 

And there you have it - everything you could possibly need to know about properly caring for your cuticles! With the right tools and techniques, you can get salon-worthy nails.