No matter how well you do your makeup, if your skincare is not right on point, it will show up on the final canvas. Right? The same is the case with your manicures. No matter how pretty your nail color is or how beautiful your design is, if your base is not done right, the end result won’t be as pristine as you’re looking for.
[Using a cuticle remover to soften the cuticles and then pushing back to remove and trim the dead skin.]
Some manicurists achieve stunning-looking nails even with just a plain nude color on short natural nails. While you’re still struggling with a squeaky-clean look despite having long-ass nails and intricate artworks. Why? The reason is efficient cuticle work. The cleaner your cuticle work is, the better the final results of your manicures will be. Here’s how you can achieve it.
What is a Cuticle Softener? A Complete How-To Guide
Though there are many tools you can use to remove cuticle dead skin, each one has a specific purpose. And while you can use many of these to push, trim, cut, and remove the cuticles, at times the dead skin deposits are quite hard and rigid. That’s when a cuticle softener, or you can say cuticle remover, comes into the picture. Let’s take a deep dive into what it is along with a complete how-to guide to use it in your DIY manicures.
What is a Cuticle Softener?
A cuticle softener, also commonly known as a cuticle remover, is used to soften the dead skin around the cuticles for easy removal. It comes in a cream, liquid, or gel solution and it helps weaken the dry tissue bonds around the cuticles before cleaning them.
Once applied, a cuticle softener cream helps remove excess cuticles easily from the nail surface. It provides quick and effective dead skin removal results before proceeding to push them with a cuticle pusher. Besides being effective, cuticle removers are also gentle on the skin and do not cause any infection or irritation. It usually doesn’t have any harmful chemicals and is easy to use unless you apply it on broken or already irritated skin.
A cuticle remover liquid is an essential product in your manicure vanity if you plan to remove excess dead skin and tissue buildup without damaging your cuticles, nails, and the surrounding skin. Some other names for the product include nail cuticle softener, cuticle removing liquid, nail cuticle remover, and the like.
What are the Benefits of Using a Cuticle Softener?
Though you can remove excess dead skin using a cuticle fork or even get rid of tough and rigid cuticles using a nipper, here are several benefits of using a softener as a prior step:
- It softens the cuticle skin for easy manipulation.
- It eases dry tissue and dead skin removal without causing harm.
- It is safe to use as it does not contain any harmful substances or chemicals.
- It usually comes in a bottle or dropper packaging which makes it mess-free to use.
How to Use Cuticle Softener and DIY
A cuticle softener and remover is the perfect manicure element for both DIY manicurists and professionals. Here’s how it should be used to make the most out of the product:
1) Always start with clean and sanitized hands. This is valid for both at-home manicures and salon sessions.
2) Trim the nails to the desired length. Shape and file them using a nail file till you’re happy with the shape.
3) Apply the cuticle softener polish, cream, liquid, or gel – whatever you have – and wait for 30 seconds for it to work.
4) Gently push back the cuticles and remove the excess dead skin using a cuticle fork, trimmer, or nipper. Avoid going too deep in the skin with your nips and cuts.
5) Brush off the residue for a clean canvas. Buff your nail surface well and finally go ahead with your nail painting and designing steps.
Wrapping Up Cuticle Softeners
Now that you’ve explored what a cuticle softener is and how to use it, you’re equipped with all the knowledge needed to maintain healthy, well-groomed nails. Whether you’re a nail art enthusiast or someone who enjoys keeping their nails neat and tidy, understanding the role of a cuticle remover can make a world of difference. By incorporating this simple yet effective product into your nail care routine, you’ll not only achieve smoother, more manageable cuticles but also enhance the overall appearance of your hands.
