Cuticles are the thin layers of skin that surround your nails and protect them from infections and damage. However, sometimes they can grow too long and cover the nail plate, making your nails look dull and unhealthy. That’s why it’s important to push back your cuticles regularly and keep them neat and tidy. In this article, we will show you how to use a cuticle pusher like a pro and achieve salon-quality results at home.
What Is a Cuticle Pusher?
A cuticle pusher is a simple nail tool that is used to push back the excess skin from your cuticles and away from your nails. It can also be used to clean under the nails and remove any dirt or debris. There are different types of cuticle pushers available, such as steel, wood, glass, or plastic. They usually have two ends: one with a curved or rounded tip and one with a sharp or pointed tip.
The curved or rounded tip is used to gently push back the cuticles on the surface of the nail, while the sharp or pointed tip is used to push down the cuticles at the corners of the nail or clean under the nail. Some cuticle pushers also have a spoon-shaped or curved end that can help scrape off any dead skin or residue from the nail.
How To Use a Cuticle Pusher?
Before using a cuticle pusher, you need to prepare your nails and soften your cuticles. This will make the process easier and prevent any damage or injury to your skin. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Remove any nail polish or gel from your nails using a nail polish remover.
2. Trim and file your nails to your desired shape and length.
3. Apply a cuticle remover or oil on your nails and massage it gently. This will help loosen and soften the cuticles and make them easier to push back.
4. Soak your fingers in a bowl of warm water for about 3 minutes. This will further hydrate and soften your cuticles.
5. Dry your fingers with a towel and make sure they are completely dry before using the cuticle pusher.
6. Hold the cuticle pusher at a 45-degree angle and use the curved or rounded end to gently slide it along the base of the nail and push back the cuticles. Do not apply too much pressure or force as this can damage your skin or cause bleeding.
7. Use the sharp or pointed end to push down the cuticles at the corners of the nail or clean under the nail. Be careful not to poke or scratch your skin with this end as it can cause infections or injuries.
8. Repeat this process for all your nails until you have pushed back all the excess skin from your cuticles.
9. Wipe off any excess cuticle remover or oil from your nails with a cotton pad or tissue.
10. Apply a moisturizer or cream on your hands and nails to hydrate and nourish them.
How To Choose the Best Cuticle Pusher?
There are many factors to consider when choosing the best cuticle pusher for your nails, such as:
- The material: The most common materials for cuticle pushers are steel, wood, glass, or plastic. Steel cuticle pushers are durable, easy to clean, and suitable for complex or thick cuticles. Wood cuticle pushers are gentle, eco-friendly, and ideal for soft or sensitive cuticles. Glass cuticle pushers are smooth, hygienic, and suitable for all types of cuticles. Plastic cuticle pushers are cheap, disposable, and ideal for occasional use.
- The shape: The shape of the cuticle pusher can affect how well it works on your nails. Some have blunt rounded ends, others have sharp pointy ends or spoon-shaped ends, and yet others are curved. The most common one has a rounded tip on one end and a sharp tip on the other. You can choose the one that suits your preferences and needs.
- The size: The size of the cuticle pusher should match the size of your nails and fingers. If it is too big or too small, it can be uncomfortable or ineffective to use. You can measure the width of your nail bed and compare it with the width of the tip of the cuticle pusher to find the right size for you.
Dos and Don’ts Of Using a Nail Cuticle Pusher Correctly
Here are some dos and don’ts of using a nail cuticle pusher correctly:
- Do sanitize your cuticle pusher before and after each use with alcohol or soap and water to prevent any bacteria or germs from transferring to your nails or skin.
- Do use a good quality cuticle remover or oil to soften your cuticles before pushing them back.
- Do soak your fingers in warm water for a few minutes to soften your cuticles further.
- Do hold the cuticle pusher at a 45-degree angle gently slide it along the base of the nail and push back the cuticles.
- Do use the sharp or pointed end to push down the cuticles at the corners of the nail or clean under the nail.
- Do moisturize your hands and nails after using the cuticle pusher to keep them hydrated and healthy.
- Don’t use a cuticle pusher on dry or hard cuticles as this can cause damage or injury to your skin.
- Don’t apply too much pressure or force when using the cuticle pusher as this can cause bleeding or pain.
- Don’t cut or trim your cuticles with scissors or clippers as this can increase the risk of infections or injuries.
- Don’t use a cuticle pusher more than once a week as this can weaken your nails and make them prone to splitting or peeling.
The Bottom Line
Using a cuticle pusher is a simple and effective way to keep your nails looking neat and healthy. It can help you push back the excess skin from your cuticles and away from your nails, making them look longer and stronger. However, you need to use it correctly and carefully to avoid any damage or injury to your skin. You also need to choose the best quality cuticle pushers for your nails, depending on the material, shape, and size. By following the steps and tips in this article, you can use a cuticle pusher like a pro and achieve salon-quality results at home.
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