Why are my cuticles so dry? 5 causes and how to fix them

By Karin Cardenas

A simple routine to get your cuticles back on track

If your cuticles are already in rough shape, here's a quick reset routine:

  1. Soak your fingertips in warm water for 2 to 3 minutes to soften the skin
  2. Gently push back your cuticles with a wooden cuticle stick, no cutting
  3. Apply cuticle oil generously to each nail and massage it in
  4. Follow up with a hand cream to lock in moisture
  5. Repeat daily (the oil application, not necessarily the soak)

Within a week or two of doing this consistently, you'll notice a real difference. Softer cuticles, less peeling, and healthier-looking nails overall.


The bottom line

Dry cuticles are almost always a moisture problem, and the solution is simpler than you might think. Identify what's stripping your cuticles dry, protect them from further damage, and add a daily cuticle oil to your routine. That's really it.

Your hands work hard every day. They deserve a little love back.


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