A cuticle is considered as a dead layer of skin cells that forms the sides of the finger nails. The main structure of this layer is formed by proteins like collagens, cuticlins, glycoproteins and lipids. Removal of this layer of dead cells is part of cuticle care. This base-like section, where the nail meets the skin can be a sight of infection as well (technically called Paronychia). Owing to this reason, paying attention to the cuticles is of vital importance for the health of the nail.
Dry Cuticles – Hangnail Care
Some people might always have dry cuticles due to which their hangnails are exposed and does not look good especially for women. One can get rid of this problem by using some simple remedies or can visit a manicurist if there is an urgency to get rid of the problem. It is better to get rid of these dry cuticles from an expert or else one could end up with sore fingers while trying to do it on their own.
How to Take Care of the Fingernail Cuticles Naturally
Awareness on the beauty products which claim to provide care to the nail and its parts is necessary. Also one has to develop healthy habits of nail care as part of the lifestyle. It calls for investing time and money. But, the investment is definitely worth it. There are several websites on the Internet which can provide information on the artificial products of cuticle care. Following are the natural ways to take care of the nail base:
- The base of the nail should be massaged with warm olive oil after bath using the tip of the finger.
- Massaging the cuticles with a mixture of Eucalyptus oil and Jojoba oil can be beneficial and protect them from getting dehydrated.
- The dead skin should be removed by wiping them with cotton balls and moisturizing them later.
- There are some creams available in the market to soften the cuticles. After applying them the dead cells can be removed using cuticle removers and orangewood sticks together.
- Excess manicure of the nail base can leave it thick and overgrown, a definitely undesirable state.
Cuticle Infection – Why Care of the Cuticles Cannot be Ignored – Paronychia
The important function of this layer is to provide protection to the nail so that its growth continues. Old dead cells of the nail are replaced by the new ones. The nail gets its rigidity from a protein keratin in its later stage of growth.
In the initial stages, the cuticle protects the new and soft type of this nail protein. If the cuticles are well protected, the nail is bound to grow healthier and stronger. Ignoring the health of the cuticles increases the chances of infection in them. While bacteria can cause an infection called acute Paronychia, fungus can cause chronic form of this condition.
The term acute refers to the fact that the symptoms of this condition spreads very quickly and calls for medical attention without delay. The chronic form unfortunately can be a lifetime issue cropping up every now and then after a definite period of time. It is estimated that 12 percent Americans suffer from the chronic type of this condition.
Some of the Symptoms of Paronychia to look out for are
- Blister
- Redness
- Pain
- Discoloration of the nail
- Abnormality in its shape
- Formation of pus
- Inflammation at the sight of infection
Causes of Paronychia of the Cuticles: Exposure to harmful detergents, soaps and water for long, repeated washing of hands and injury to this soft section of the nail can lead to the development of these signs. According to the experts, health care workers and those from the food processing industry are more prone to developing this condition in any of its two types.
Treatment for Paronychia: Antibiotics and anti-bacterial ointments can be prescribed by the doctor for treating acute form of the infection in the cuticles. Soaking this section of the nail in warm water for 3-4 times a day can help in providing relief from pain. The pus has to be drained as early as possible under medical supervision. Delay in it might call for removal of the entire nail.
Anti-fungal medications in the form of creams and certain steroids can be prescribed by the doctor for treating chronic cuticle infection.
Conclusion: It is advisable to follow both modern and time-tested techniques of cuticle care in moderation for optimal benefits and to ensure proper health of the nails against infection.
