cuticle care

what is cuticle care and why is it important?

think of your cuticles as your nail's best little bodyguard! They're that thin layer of clear skin that sits right at the base of your nail plate, where your nail grows out from the nail bed.

essentially, your cuticles act as a protective seal. they're there to help prevent bacteria, dirt, and other not-so-nice things from getting into the nail matrix, that's the area underneath your skin where your nail cells are produced. keeping that area healthy is key for strong, beautiful nail growth!  

so, while they might seem small, cuticles play a pretty important role in keeping your nails healthy and looking their best.

how do I care for my cuticles at home?

healthy cuticles are the secret to a flawless manicure! caring for your cuticles at home is simple. to keep them soft and nourished, start by gently pushing them back after a warm shower or using a cuticle pusher. never cut your cuticles, as they act as a protective barrier for your nails. instead, reach for a nourishing cuticle oil to hydrate and condition daily. simply massage a drop into your cuticles and nails for instant moisture and long-term nail health. pair with a strengthening base coat and your favourite essie nail polish for the ultimate at-home mani.

what does a cuticle oil do?

cuticle oil is a must-have for healthy, happy nails! it deeply nourishes and hydrates dry cuticles, helping to prevent peeling, cracking, and hangnails. a few drops of a luxe formula like our apricot cuticle oil instantly replenish moisture while improving nail flexibility, meaning less breakage and stronger, shinier nails over time. for best results, massage it in daily and pair it with a base coat to lock in hydration before your next flawless mani.

should i push back my cuticles before or after using cuticle oil?

because cuticle oil hydrates and softens the cuticles, it makes pushing back the cuticles much easier to do. when doing so, it is important to use a soft tool, such as a rubber-tipped cuticle pusher, to gently nudge the softened cuticle towards the base of the nail.

however, it is crucial to avoid cutting or aggressively pushing back the cuticles, as they act as a protective barrier for the root of your nail. excessive manipulation can cause damage, leading to hangnails and increasing the risk of infection.