Dry Cuticles – Causes and treatments
Dry cuticles are a common issue where the skin surrounding your nails becomes rough, cracked or flaky. This can make your nails look unhealthy and may lead to painful hangnails or nail infections if left untreated. Understanding what causes dry cuticles and how to treat them is key to maintaining healthy hands and nails.
What are Dry Cuticles?
Cuticles are the thin strips of skin that protect the area between your nails and fingers (or toes) from bacteria and infection. When they lose moisture or become damaged, they can dry out, peel or crack. Dry cuticles often appear dull, rough and may feel tight or sore.
Common Causes of Dry Cuticles
- Frequent Hand Washing and Sanitiser Use - Constant exposure to water and alcohol based sanitisers strips away natural oils and leave cuticles dehydrated.
- Cold or Dry Weather – Low humidity and cold air draw moisturise out of the skin, making cuticles more prone to dryness and cracking.
- Harsh Chemicals and Cleaning Products – Detergents, soaps and cleaning products can weaken the skin’s natural barrier and cause irritation around the nails.
- Nutrient Deficiency - Lack of essential vitamins and minerals, especially vitamins A, E and B7 (Biotin) can affect nail and cuticle health.
- Nail Biting or Picking – Damage from biting or picking at cuticles can cause them to tear and become inflamed.
- Dehydration – Not drinking enough water reduces the skin’s ability to stay hydrated which can lead to dryness in the hands and cuticles.
Treatments for Dry Cuticles
Here at Feetlife we have a range of products to help reduce cuticle dryness and improve the appearance of dry nails/cuticles. Improving your everyday nail and cuticle care can hugely help. We recommend the following for dry cuticles:
- Cuticle Oil: Use a hydrating cuticle oil to restore moisture and flexibility. Look for ingredients like Jojoba oil and Vitamin E.
- Hand Cream: Use a moisturising hand cream daily to rehydrate and protect hands and cuticles.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid contact with harsh soaps, sanitisers and acetone based nail polish removers.
- Avoid Cutting Cuticles: Instead of trimming cuticles gently push them back with a cuticle exfoliator.
This information is for guidance only. If you are in doubt at all, please consult your nearest health professional.