If you like nail care, dry cuticles can be an eyesore. Aside from the fact that dry cuticles look less than appealing, they can also lead to infection. Luckily, you can treat the problem right at home, and give your cuticles the moisture they need. Restore your nails' health with these quick and easy tips for treating a dry cuticle.

Why are my cuticles so dry?

The cuticle is a layer of thin and clear skin, located at the bottom of fingernails and toenails – right along the nailbed. The job of the cuticle is to protect the nail from infections, and it is a barrier to bacteria and other infection-causing factors. When cuticles are not moist enough, they will crack and peel, exposing the nailbed along the way.

Other reasons for dry cuticles are frequent exposure to water, cold weather, eczema, frequent use of nail polish remover, frequent use of hand sanitizer, nail-biting, cuticle biting, and taking certain medication.

The condition can lead to infections of various kinds. As we said, the cuticle is a barrier against infection-causing factors. When the barrier is damaged, the nailbed is exposed and can get infected. So, if you notice that your cuticles are dry, flaky, or peeling – it's time to treat them.

How to fix dry cuticles

If you are searching for a dry cuticle remedy, here is a list of all the ways in which you can treat dry cuticles. Stick to a routine, and you will see results in no time:

Hydrate more

The main cause of dryness in cuticles is a lack of moisture. To treat the issue, you should start from inside and work outward. Water is key to treating dryness problems, including dry cuticles. You should drink a minimum of 6 cups of water a day, and more during warm months. If you are one of the people who struggle with chugging water, drink it in small and frequent doses during the day. You can also make infused water with fruity flavors to make the drinking easier and more delicious. Either way, you should drink more if you are not getting enough water. It is key to treating your cuticles.

Use a quality cuticle conditioner

A hand moisturizer can help with hydrating cuticles, but it won't solve the issue entirely. So, you should use a quality cuticle moisturizer that will deeply hydrate this unique layer of skin. Purchase a product that contains natural oils, vitamins, and minerals, and use it daily, or as the product instructs.


Try coconut oil

Using coconut oil from time to time is a wonderful, natural treatment for dryness in cuticles. Coconut oil contains saturated fat that soothes nailbeds and makes them stronger. How to use it? take a small amount of coconut oil with your fingertips, and massage it into the cuticles. You can also use a soft brush to rub in the oil and let it work its magic.

Wear gloves when necessary

If your hands are often exposed to water or chemicals, it is likely to cause dryness. To protect your cuticles from harsh materials, you should wear disposable gloves when necessary. When you are washing dishes or performing different chores, protect your skin and cuticles with gloves.

Try a homemade biotin salve

According to some research, biotin can strengthen nails and cuticles, and prevent peeling and dryness. You can purchase biotin at nature stores or pharmacies, either in liquid form or in powder form. It requires no prescription. To make a cuticle care cream, you need to combine biotin with coconut oil. Argan oil, and vitamin E. You can apply the hydrating salve daily or every other day, and the results will be quickly visible.


Avoid biting your nails and cuticles

Biting your fingernails and cuticles can lead to constant dryness. It can be especially bad during cold winter months when cuticles are more likely to dry. When you bite your nails and cuticles, you are causing trauma, and your cuticles will crack, split, and peel off. It can also lead to the removal of the cuticle altogether. So, you should avoid the habit, and stop biting your nails. Biting nails and cuticles can also lead to bacterial and fungal infections, so it's not good for you. There are several products, such as the no-bite topcoat by Orly. These types of products have a bitter taste, and they will gradually help you stop the biting.

Proper cuticle care: the bottom lime

It may seem like a small issue, but dry cuticles can lead to infection – of both nailbeds and skin. There are several possible reasons for cuticle dryness, and avoiding these causes is the best treatment. Also, treating dry cuticles at home can restore their natural moisture, and make your cuticles and nails healthy and aesthetic.