Best cuticle care products according to redditors
We found 109 Reddit comments discussing the best cuticle care products. We ranked the 42 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
6. Sally Hansen Instant Cuticle Remover, 1 Fluid Ounce (Pack of 1)
4 mentions
1 Piece - 1 Ounce (29ml)
Sparkle nail polish, or better yet, this.
http://www.amazon.com/Little-Spa-Party-Filled-Favor/dp/B00IEV7HQC/ref=sr_1_26?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1451937958&sr=1-26&keywords=Party+spa
For their sleepover.
Or this:
http://www.amazon.com/SmartLab-Toys-All-Natural-Spa/dp/1603801014/ref=pd_sim_21_11?ie=UTF8&dpID=61gtn2JtjtL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=17676BM4GX5PHDH4HYZ0
Hang on, though. We're neglecting some of their needs. Obviously it's getting a wee bit stressful there.
http://www.amazon.com/Relaxation-Sunshine-Therapeutic-Essential-Edens/dp/B002RSVTHQ/ref=sr_1_4?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1451938114&sr=1-4&keywords=Aromatherapy
Because they really need some sunshine spice in their lives.
But seriously, a little siege shouldn't get in the way of digestive health. Ahem.
http://www.amazon.com/LoveBug-Probiotics-x2665-Womens-Health/dp/B012LO1TSO/ref=sr_1_42?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1451938264&sr=1-42&keywords=Women%27s
Truly, though. They plan to occupy for years. Eventually they will get . . . Lonely. So there's no chafing.
http://www.amazon.com/Luxxx-Beauty-Intensify-Enhancement-Stimulant/dp/B01726XNZI/ref=sr_1_59?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1451938355&sr=1-59&keywords=Women%27s
After a long day of protecting the perimeter,
http://www.amazon.com/Outop-Alignment-Women-Tendon-Relieve/dp/B00K0DD27U/ref=sr_1_78?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1451938469&sr=1-78&keywords=Women%27s
Even terrorists (cough) patriots want to smell nice.
http://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Swift-Womens-Wonderstruck-Parfum/dp/B005LN670S/ref=sr_1_78?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1451938580&sr=1-78&keywords=Women%27s
Nothing says "revolutionary" like well cared for hands.
http://www.amazon.com/Julep-Cuticles-Thirsty-Fast-Absorbing-Cuticle/dp/B01130YUIS/ref=sr_1_5?s=luxury-beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1451939089&sr=1-5&keywords=Cuticle+cream
I had way too much fun with this.
Let me start by saying this: I would have included a before pic but I was so ashamed that I never took any pictures when I was constantly biting my nails/cuticles. I am in my early 20s and I've been doing this to them since before I can remember (early childhood). I first tried to stop around 14, and have struggled since then. It is such an ingrained stress response/habit that it's taken me years to retrain myself. It was easier to stop biting my nails and I haven't done so at all in 6 months, but my cuticles/surrounding skin are another story. This is something I still struggle with as it's triggered by stress and I don't realize I've started until they're trashed. However, since January it's happened less and less, now maybe once a month or less.
What caused the change in me? Honestly, it was never one single thing. I have been building my ability to resist for years. I realize this is cliche but one important thing is to never give up. I've had too many backslides to count, from 1 day to even half a year at the most. What's helped me is NEVER accepting defeat, and always eventually trying again. One motivating factor was that I've always wanted to have nice nails for getting engaged/married. It was in January that that became an event occurring sooner rather than later, so I will definitely say that has helped me stay focused!
There was one part of stopping the habit that scared me after years of constantly damaging my nails and cuticles: would they ever properly heal and grow back 'normal'? As of yet I still do not have one straight answer. I will say that the strength in my nails has improved, although it is slow going. I am still on the lookout for products to help with this, although I think only time will help. I also tend to have some nails which are very ridged, but they've also continued to smooth out. Finally, there is one cuticle I have which was permanently damaged in a way that's difficult to explain. Basically, it grows in three separate sections, almost as if it's cut. I was absolutely AMAZED when it started to grow 'connected' again! I will say this it sometimes splits still, but it is definitely progress and I hope one day it's completely healed. So, if you're in the same boat and worried permanent damage has been done, I can't make any promises but I will say it's amazing how well they can bounce back - even if it takes months or years to reverse it.
​
What helped me:
There is honestly so much more I could say but this post would be a book! I'm just taking the time now to sit back and enjoy all of my progress.
In the winter I'm never more than 15 feet from one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DYMYY2G/
I have about 7 of them.
Lots and lots of cuticle oil (1 2 3 4), and hand moisturizer will help. (Aim to apply oil 2-3x a day, especially after handwashing.) It also wouldn't hurt to get some cuticle remover and gently push back your cuticles (NO cutting). Healing up the skin will help stop the picking. Plus, keep them polished and don't pick at it. It'll take a while for your nails to grow out enough to get past the peely bits... you can't magic cure the damage, you can only grow it out. You could try a ridge filling basecoat to help smooth out your polish color.
You could get fake nails put on, but that almost always includes them buffing/filing/roughing up the top layers of your nails- which just creates more damage... so it would have to be perpetually maintained, or you'd have to grow out the damage at a later date.
Hi nail care/nail polish spaz here. Cuticles are indeed a specialized bit of skin on your nail. It sort of makes a barrier from the end of the skin on your finger to your nail bed. Oil up your nail area a couple times a day (morning and night? or just night time if you want). You can be fancy and get a nail oil pen or be basic with some vitamin E from Wal-Mart or even olive oil. It'll soften things up. GENTLY use an orange stick to push them back once a week. I don't really recommend metal tools cuz it's easier to do damage with them, or even introduce infection :( If you have the kind of cuticles that want to climb way up your nails, you can get stuff to dissolve the crust.
Be gentle and never ever cut your cuticles unless you have a hangnail snagging on things. Did I mention be gentle? I've seen so many grown out manicures where you can see the technician got too vigorous. I did it to myself once even, and the part I jacked up is still growing out 8 months later. You can see the travelling dent in the center of my thumb here
What I described up there is what I do to keep things nice because I abuse my cuticles with acetone pretty regularly for the love of polish!
I use this cuticle remover https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Cross-Cuticle-Remover-Oz/dp/B00GNHNY16 and a high-quality, sharp pair of cuticle nippers for the initial preparation. The painting part takes a fair amount of practice - go really slowly (gel/shellac polish makes this easier because it doesn't dry on its own), make sure your foundation layer and first layer of color are really thin, add a third layer of color even though most directions say to only use two, and get as close to the cuticle as you can without touching it. Have a really tiny paintbrush and some acetone ready to touch up any errors, and do all of the layers on one hand before moving to the next. I hope that's helpful!
I know the pain, skin picking was one of my biggest issues back when my nails were longer. A couple things I recommend:
Lotion or some other moisturizer - it can really help keep your skin smooth so it's harder to pick at in the first place. Lots of other people on this sub tend to suggest this and have some ideas for what to use. I see Burt's Bees cuticle cream (amazon link) pretty often on other posts, so maybe give that a shot.
Fidget object - often I find that I start picking at my fingers when I'm nervous or need to keep my hands busy and having something to toy with seriously helps. Often I'll use a ribbon, drum my fingernails on a surface, mess with my hair, or clasp and un-clasp my watch. Anything to keep my hands busy. I recently pre-ordered the highly anticipated fidget cube that many people have been watching on this sub and am hoping for the best.
Keep your nails short - This one is hard for me because I like to keep my nails longer as (a) it lets me use them, (b) acts as positive reinforcement, (c) is necessary if they're ever going to reach a nice shape again, and (d) is nice for drumming on my phone or desk, but by keeping them shorter, it makes it very difficult to pick at the skin or other nails when they start to flake/chip.
That's all I've got. I hope this is in anyway helpful to you or others who have the same problem. Best of luck!
It's not an oil, but I love Burts Bees cuticle cream. I got the Essie sample too and was honestly disappointed. I just like the smell of lemon better, I think. And you can even get a pack of 3 Burts Bees for $11 now.
Nail Buffer Use this weekly. It'll remove stains, get rid of ridges and shines. It's a 3 part process. Only do it once a week, any more and your nails will get too thin.
Vitamin E oil, they sell it at Family Dollar, Dollar Tree, and Dollar General. Rib a little on your cuticles before bed each night.
Cuticle Remover If you have an excess amount of cuticle growth. Rub this into your cuticles and let it set for several minutes. Then push back your cuticles carefully with these thingys.
Get this nail oil. Its the same size as a pen and comes with a cap. Keep it in your bag and take it with you. Every time you feel the compulsion to pick, put the nail oil on instead.
i like how you put them on the tips! very fun. and i've had my own struggles with cuticle chaos. hoofer's choice worked miracles for me! it's much cheaper to buy at a sally's or other beauty supply store, though.
I found that lil oil pens like this one helped me regularly oil my cuticles which helped a lot! Your nails and cuticles are actually quite nice! That color looks very subtle and elegant. I’ve been learning myself on how to maintain my nails with videos like this one :) best of luck and happy painting!
Orly No Bite Cuticle Care, 0.6 Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F97PFOK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_nRRSAbGSZGW89
Simply Pure nail oil
On mobile so I hope that worked.
Put this on your nails a few times a day & your nails will improve. My nails used to peel like crazy so I couldn't grow them out. I've been using this for over 2 years now & my nails don't peel so much, they're stronger, more flexible (so they bend instead of snap off), & I'm filing them down every week because they grow faster.
Razors - A lot of women actually use men's razors for legs and underarms. This is what I use! They are less expensive and do the same exact job. No need to pay the pink tax. Personally, I use these
Moisturizer - I use Aveeno lotions. I can't handle smells and Aveeno is usually scentless.
Nail care - I am currently trying to take better care of my nails so they don't CHIP ALL THE TIME. Cuticle butter at night, and cuticle oil alllll throughout the day.
Eyebrow care - I have very bushy brows. Even though a bold brow is in right now, if I let mine go natural, it is like 2 fuzzy caterpillars on my brow bone. Get a more expensive pair of tweezers, trust me. The cheap ones will struggle grasping the hairs. Eyebrow razors to get the edges and help trim everything up]
Face wash - I have really good skin - super lucky, I know. I just use a gentle face wash and that is it.
I used to have awful cuticles and issues with hang nails and crap too. Then, I started using Burt's Bees Cuticle Creme along with Aquaphor all over my hands (and lips!) at night before bed, along with drinking more water to stay hydrated over all and things look really good and healthy these days. And for the love of Pete, please don't cut or push them back, in my experience it only makes it worse.
I can barely see them, but I'd suggest using a nail oil like jojoba or vitamin E. Also Bliss Kiss sells a [nail and cuticle oil pen for 7$] (https://www.amazon.com/Bliss-Kiss-Simply-Pure-Cuticle/dp/B00DYMYY2G/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1499134405&sr=8-4&keywords=nail%2Boil&th=1)
Believe it or not, using liquid cuticle remover. I got a big bottle of the blue cross remover and that removes the part of your cuticle that attaches to the nail, which is the part that rips as your nail plate grows longer and that causes raggedy cuticles and hangnails. It's labeled the cuticle in this picture and probably isn't what you think of as your cuticle: http://www.imgrum.org/media/1275793552444599395_2232543178 and is labeled the "true" cuticle in this one: https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/t51.2885-15/e35/12328024_238329779853526_1817891622_n.jpg?ig_cache_key=MTIyNTAzMjcyNzM5NTg2MzI4Mw%3D%3D.2
So the Blue Cross or whatever chemical remover you buy to separate the cuticle from the eponychium, and then just keep the eponychium moisturized. You can trim it if it dries out and you can see it is totally dead - I keep the clippers on a high shelf so I need to make an effort to grab them. I also keep a roller ball of cuticle oil near my couch and every time I feel like I want to mess with my fingers I use that instead!
Before I got into nails, I used to have really bad hangnails and I would pull on then All The Time.
Weirdly enough- or not I suppose, painting and manicuring them and generally obsessing over All the Pretty Colors stopped the habit. My working theory is:
If you're painting and fussing with your hands semi regularly, then you're probably moisturizing them as well.
If the skin is properly moisturized, there's no more hang nails to pull on. And if you are as deep into the rabbit hole as I was/am, you probably have a pair of these
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B06WVDZVGD/ref=mp_s_a_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1525122221&sr=8-4&refinements=p_72%3A2661618011&keywords=cuticle+nippers&dpPl=1&dpID=41kR0pOpI0L&ref=plSrch
to clip off those tiny skin tags like a Real Life Salon Tech before your teeth can get to them. Yep, I'm a former nail biter as well.
Burt's Bees Cuticle Cream + a nipper keep my crazy cuticles in check!
not an artistic tip, just nail care. the best thing that's worked for me to keep my nails strong and healthy is MOISTURIZING! hand lotion after every hand washing and cuticle cream a few times a day.
Hey im a nail technician and used to be a horrid nail biter. I've coached many through the habit! Everything these ppl said is true but im going to provide you with some links:
1- Nail file - you dont need a glass one obv but they last forever and are more sustainable.
2- Cuticle Nippers- I would, like u/deskais said, keep them with you all the time for a while and use that when you have a hang nail or rough cuticle you want to pick at. This one is a pretty inexpensive pair that comes with a cuticle pusher to push your cuticles back with.
3- Disgustig nail polish - I've heard tales of people chewing through it but that is mind boggling to me. It tastes awful and will at the very least remind you if you are biting at them subconsciously. There is another brand called "stop the bite" but it wears off and isn't so bad. This one stays on until you remove it.
4- Cuticle Cream. This one is important and would be my #1 choice if you only picked one. Moisturize that shit every day. Keep it on your nightstand or in your car so you dont forget. If they aren't dry, there will be nothing to pick at and they will look so much better.
Id also get a professional manicure just to see how they do it and then that will help you learn how to do it yourself, and it will clean them up and then all you have to do is keep it up with at home care.
​
Good luck! Id love to see a followup post in a month if you remember.
I stopped biting my nails in mid-March and started using China Glaze's Calcium Gel Fortifier for my very weak and thin nails.
Products I use:
EDIT: It's a little hard to see unless you open the picture all the way up, but it's not just that the nails are longer, but that the skin around the nails and cuticles is much healthier. On Day 1 you can see flaking skin and spots where I had pulled the skin in runners toward the knuckle. Those are gone by day 28!
Lol, Im glad to be a the bearer of good news. Heres the one I use, works fine, and although its small you only need a little bit to flood the cuticle.
If you want to go all in, I also make my own cuticle oil so the skin dries up less, so I dont feel the need to pick at it. I use a mix of jojoba oil w/ vitamin e oil to make it the consistency I want. While its not completely necessary, vitamin e is good for your skin and thickness for application/less runoff. Then put it in a brush pen for easier application and potability so I can have one wherever. You dont need to use the exact ones I have, just this is what I ordered.
Definitely need hydration. I like Burt's Bee's Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream because it's thick and very hydrating. I really slather it into my cuticles and let it soak in when I'm not using my hands too heavily (i.e. at work, on the computer, watching tv).
As others have said, a manicure would definitely do you good as well. They'll be able to trim away all of the dead cuticle and really moisturize in one go. You'll still need to work on keeping them maintained in the long run.
I order everything on Amazon lol.
argan oil
jojoba oil
gloves I try to force myself to wear when I'm out and about
good cuticle oil pen
I don't know if this is "right" but I trim the dead skin when I get out of the shower (because I find it getting caught on things like my animals or clothes like when the skin gets stuck in the fibers omg kill me). I also file the dry/callused skin to avoid the same.
You are 100% not alone and we're all here for you <3 One day at a time and it's never too late in the day to start.
Embryolisse lait creme concentre is the most amazing moisturizer/makeup primer ever and if you have dry skin and it's within your budget you're kind of obligated to buy it imo.
I also swear by the Blue Cross cuticle remover to get rid of my calloused heels. After you shower and your feet are a lil soft put some of it on a pumice stone and get scrubbing. It's like you never had them in the first place.
any specific polishes or lamp I'm using, is that what you want to know? most things I've been using lately has been by Sensationail. I can't find it on their site but I am also currently trying a product they have called a "polish to gel transformer." You're supposed to mix it with regular polish and it makes it last longer like a gel polish formula and you can use the gel top coat to cure with the lamp. I can't 100% speak to it living up to its claims to last as long as gel, as I'm just trying it out this week. But I mixed it with a Nails Inc. shade and its been 3 days, no chips or anything, so I'm hopeful! Even 7-9 days would be bomb.
Lechat Perfect Mood "Cascade" was my favourite gel/mood polish so far :) It lasted me 14 days, would have been longer but one day at work I was really bored and was bad and picked some off purposely (which I don't recommend at all, it's pretty bad for your nails).
This is my favourite cuticle oil (I buy it at Walmart usually).
These are the products I swear by: Lucas Papaw Ointment and Bliss kiss nail oil. They definitely don't burn and they smell wonderful. I use the papaw ointment on everything--my eye area gets dry too, or my elbows, or as chapstick.
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I have had some success by trying to keep the damage to one or two fingers. Like "I'm letting everything but the pointer fingers heal" and then I still have an outlet but the other skin gets better and then I'm less likely to pick those. And then I try to bring it down to 1, and then 0. I generally relapse but it's gotten significantly better in terms of severity overall.
Just what it sounds like, cream for your cuticles.
I use this stuff, because it works well and smells good. :)
A lot of conscious effort to not put my fingers near my mouth! I have a lot of anxiety and whenever I was bored or anxious I would start to bite. I’ve wanted to stop for years, but what made me really quit for good was investing into my nails, if that makes sense.
As soon as they were long enough to do so and my cuticles healed, I got a manicure to get them shaped evenly, which definitely motivated me to keep going because they actually looked nice. I began to use nail strengtheners because years of biting really make my nails brittle. My holy grail nail product is the Bliss Kiss nail and cuticle oil. It comes in a large dropper bottle and a portable pen. Investing actual money into the health of my nails was so worth it, and really helped me stop. The cuticle oil especially changed my nails and cuticles for the better.
If you need any more advice or encouragement, message me! I’d love to help :)
Use a Cuticle Oil that has Jojoba Wax ester listed as the first ingredient. Avoid cuticle oils that contain mineral oil.
https://www.amazon.com/Bliss-Kiss-Simply-Pure-Cuticle/dp/B00DYMYY2G
Oiling your cuticles will:
I like these Bliss Kiss nail oil pens
Many people love Burts Bees cuticle cream
Just put some around your nail on the cuticles and rub it in daily. I also recommend doing your own research to see what works for other people
Honestly, I use cuticle remover gel or cream about once a month, and scrape off the overgrown cuticle. I control the cuticles on my toenails by scraping around them with a fingernail after soaking in the bath. IMO, pushing the cuticle has never done much good, and sometimes I'll accidentally hurt myself doing it.
That being said, I went for years with not doing anything to them, and it didn't cause any legitimate problems outside of not looking perfectly manicured. Cleaning them up does make nail polish look smoother. shrug
Take care of your cuticles. This video was very helpful to me. If you don't want to remove your cuticles, keep them pushed back (although if it's been a while since you have pushed your cuticles, you may find it easier to just remove them and then keep up with pushing them). A decent cuticle pusher will help keep them under control. I prefer to use a tool like this one that also has a trimmer on one end - I use the trimmer to any hardened skin that's formed at the corners of my nails.
That being said, you should also use a cuticle cream or cuticle oil to help keep the skin around your nails and your nail bed moisturized. I like this cuticle cream, but I have heard wonderful things about Lush's Lemony Flutter as well (it's expensive but trust me, that tub will last you forever). Sally Hansen also makes a cuticle oil that gets the job done just as well. I use my cuticle cream at least once a day (sometimes twice) and it's amazing how much that alone has helped my nails.
If you're constantly messing around with your nails during the day (picking, biting, etc), try your best to curtail that. If a nail is peeling, resist the urge to bite it and file it down instead. Also, file your nails in one direction only - that reduce the risk of splitting the nail.
Lastly, I second the vitamin suggestion. YMMV, but a lot of people find that biotin and prenatal vitamins are very helpful for nail growth. If you want to go the biotin route, I suggest coupling it with a daily multivitamin (which will provide vitamin E as well as all the other important stuff).
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00DYMYY2G/ref=mp_s_a_1_6_a_it?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1550252995&amp;sr=8-6&amp;keywords=cuticle+oil&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=31EJD0Z32LL&amp;ref=plSrch
I use this one because I'm too lazy to make my own, but you can buy empty pens and make your own!
OOOOH raises hand THIS IS ME, I LOVE NAIL POLISH.
....banana.
Ok. Down to business. My favorite product.
Do I have to pick one? I can't pick one. I might do a few.
My favorite nail polish ever is China Glaze Fast Track. Why is it the best? Glad you asked. It's neutral/nude so it's not overwhelming or inappropriate ever (for work or interviews or anything). Also if your nails are in bad shape or if the polish starts chipping or if you just got lazy while applying it, you can't really tell with this one. However, by no means is it boring. The shimmer/sparkle/glittery-stuff in this one is SUPER PRESENT and SUPER PRETTY meaning that your nails will have personality still and be so gorgeous you can't stop admiring the color.
My favorite basecoat/topcoat ever is Revlon Colorstay Basecoat and Revlon Colorstay Top Coat. They are ridiculously priced on Amazon, you can find 'em cheaper in the drugstore real easy. Why do I love them? They're magical. Your polish will actually never chip. I had a polish on for 5 days while doing really hand-intensive tasks (building things, washing them a lot at work, etc.) and my nail polish DID NOT CHIP AT ALL. It was the most mindblowing thing. These ones will make it last and last and last. The Basecoat is really good on its own, you don't need the topcoat for it to be effective. But it's definitely even better with the topcoat - the pair are just a superhero team together.
My favorite cuticle cream is the Burts Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream. It can be greasy when applying but allow a couple minutes to sink in and it will work wonders for your nails and cuticles if they're dry like mine are or just in rough shape. Really great stuff.
Ok last thing. In case you're not wild about nail things, my favorite lotion is the Vaseline Total Moisture Pure Oat Extract one. I picked this up because it was the cheapest lotion (again, probably cheaper at your drugstore and easy to find) and my legs were SO DRY after shaving. Let me tell you, this stuff is the best. I've had problems with dry legs year after year in the summer and I kept trying lotions that didn't do much. This stuff feels SO NICE when you put it on, after and it makes your skin really soft and not dry for days and days. I don't have any problems anymore. So cheap and SO GOOD!
EDIT: I forgot to say why I want dat prize. I have been DYING to try the Moon Candy polishes and magnetic polishes forEVER now but I'm too afraid I won't like them to buy them for myself. Therefore, winning 'em seems like a good solution :P
I’m sure there are cheaper options but I like these: Bliss Kiss Fragrance Free Starter Kit | Simply Pure Cuticle & Nail Oil | 1 pack includes 4 pens (2ml each) ST-FREE https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DONI9TE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_3U8SDb19G2MFX
This stuff is pretty amazing. :)
I have the pens and a refill bottle of the oil, and I love it. You can buy a single pen to try it out from [Amazon]
(https://www.amazon.com/Bliss-Kiss-Pure-Cuticle-Nail/dp/B00DYMYY2G)...
Using a cuticle cream (I use this one) will get rid of your hangnails if you use it at least a couple times a week for about a month (at least for me it did). More often may help get rid of them faster, but I'm not sure. It also softens your calluses around your nail area, and it smells fantastic!
It's probably this cuticle remover.
<3 the nails! And cuticle care is my obsession! Check out this video on cuticle removal. I am firmly in the "no trim" camp, so I just push mine back regularly. I use some Sally Hansen cuticle removing gel and a pusher like that to remove the excess about once every couple of weeks. And while in the shower, I generally push them back with my nail about once a week. For moisture I use coconut oil right after manicures and this lotion for everyday.
Bliss Kiss Simply Pure Cuticle &... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J6J9D9O?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
It’s the first one I’ve tried so I have nothing else to compare it to but still it smells nice and I haven’t picked for over two weeks!
Wanted to post something that I recently started that seems to have helped (so far!) I found this while shopping amazon for some unrelated products. I work in a bar, and to clean the glasses we use some really heavy-duty anti-bacterial stuff, so my cuticles and hands get really dry and then I pick / bite at them. I like a lot of Burt's Bees products, and they're all natural/no animal testing so I figured why not try it out.
The product is more like a balm-- I swirl my finger in it and then rub it into my nails and cuticles. It smells absolutely divine, like lemon cakes, but it doesn't really taste great. I started rubbing this stuff into my nails whenever I get the urge to bite/pick and have slowly started to replace the habit with that. I'm not sure if this'll work in the long run, but I already feel the urge to bite and pick lessening. I've been a nail biter and mild dermotillomaniac for as long as I can remember... so that's a huge step for me.
Hope this helps someone! :)
supposed to. This is the first time I've used it, supposed to have an orange stick, but I didn't, so I used my fingernail and a q tip. this is what I used. I have to use it a few more times to see if it's really gonna work.
The best thing that's worked for me is a thick cuticle balm. Burt's Bees, or Badger Balm both make a product like this.
Link: http://www.amazon.com/Burts-Bees-Cuticle-Creme-Butter/dp/B00013YYS0
I feel you so hard! My advice would be to make sure your nail tech gets your cuticles really well, then use cuticle oil religiously for the rest of the week. Trader Joe's sells jojoba oil pretty cheap, and I'm a big fan of this one if you have Prime: https://www.amazon.com/Bliss-Kiss-Simply-Pure-Cuticle/dp/B00DYMYY2G/ref=sr_1_6_s_it?s=beauty&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1539616133&amp;sr=1-6&amp;keywords=cuticle%2Boil&amp;th=1
From one DMV bride to another, have an AMAZING wedding week and a better marriage!
Haha i just needed to constantly mess with something. Also side note dont use nail strengtheners; they make your nails hard yes, but they break easily. If you use nail oils it makes them more flexible and if you hit your nail against something it will bend but won't break. [Oil that I use](Bliss Kiss Pure Cuticle & Nail Oil Pen - Crisp https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DYMYY2G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_H86LybJQJ2X0P)
I have a little nail oil stick that I carry in my purse and apply throughout the day. My nail person said it helps to fill the pores in the gel which prevents stains and also helps keep it more flexible. If the gel is reacting to something else though, I don't know if that would help.
I buy Gelish from Sally's Beauty Supply.
I get those too if my hands get too dry. Keep up with the moisturizer, drink lots of water, and in the meantime you can try something like this for trimming them. They're super cheap, but work so dang well.
Cuticle trimmer
whoops I thought I answered this? Obviously not. I just use blue cross cuticle remover and push back my cuticles with an orange stick and then I honestly moisturize cuticles with stuff I hate right now, but I tried my old roommates burt's bees cuticle creme and I LOVED it so I will probs get some soon. Hope that helps!!!
EDIT: I also heard amazing things about ELF's cuticle pen which I'm dying to try too!
I think it’s great that you found something that works. I am someone who, given a cuticle nipper, would wreck the shit out of my nails.
I just wanted to share these with you because they helped me get a little more of an understanding about my nails since I have to keep mine painted or I’ll forever pick them.
The cuticle
Perfect Cuticles
Here are some things I use:
Cuticle Remover
cuticle removal tool
I use one from Sally Hansen but that’s the gist of what it looks like.
Any and all the cuticle oil you an find. :)
Well, you can start by taking a Biotin supplement or prenatal vitamins. Those will help speed up the growth of your natural nails. You'll also want to get a strengthening polish of some sort. OPI Nail Envy is popular, but I'm not sure what's available where you live. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Hand cream as often as possible. Apply cuticle oil at least once or twice a day. There are tons out there. File your nails gently, and if they're not too sensitive, buff the surface to even it out. Don't over buff it. It shouldn't hurt. After your nail surfaces are stronger and less sensitive, you might want to get a cuticle remover gel and some orange wood sticks. Apply the cuticle remover, let it sit for a minute, and then use the orange wood to gently push back any of the stuff growing up your nails. Wash your hands after using the cuticle remover, if left on too long it could burn your skin. Moisturize.
I linked some products on amazon. Just because I linked specific products doesn't mean that's what you have to use. It might take a little while to figure out the routine that works best for you, but you can do it.
OK! Short lesson time :D First thing to know is that the cuticle isn't what you think it is! Read this blog entry :)
Ok, now that you know what cuticles actually are, first step is to moisturize those mofos! Even if you just rub in lotion when you put lotion on your hands, they NEED moisture. Preferably use a cuticle balm or oil, and don't forget to apply it to your nails as well!
Next, you wanna remove your cuticles, put on a cuticle remover and push them with a cuticle stick and you can wipe them off with a tissue. This is important because polish doesn't stick to the cuticle. Also, though you aren't supposed to trim the eponychium, I still do because honestly, mine are completely unruly. If you trim them do as little as possible.
Your nails won't fall completely off unless you have some sort of really extreme nutrient deficiency, so don't worry about that. BUT brittle nails will break and split as soon as they grow out of your nail bed, past your fingertips. I am pretty obsessive about my nail health so I take a pre-natal multivitamin for the extra folic acid (also helps your hair!), calcium supplements, and I oil my nails 1-2 times a day with this nail oil. It works miracles!
I've been carrying this cuticle oil pen around with me and it's made an enormous difference. I find that if my cuticles are soft I have no urge to bite or pick at them.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DYMYY2G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_J5w2AbYYCHPMJ
I'd love this cuticle butter from my Add-Ons list.
As for the TV - don't worry about bells and whistles. Does it fit the space you're putting it in? Does it have plenty of connections for all your doodads? You don't need a smart TV if you've got Xbox. Even if the Xbox dies in a few years you can always just pick up a Roku. Just stay in your budget. You don't want to sit down to watch TV and end up just staring at a screen you still owe money on. It really cuts in on the relaxing!
silhouettes
lemon butter! :)
> nails
Give them some care! ^ ^ This thing here helped me wonders.
First off, congratulations! I've been through the struggle with biting multiple times in my life, and I know how hard it can be to finally quit.
I think the most important step in keeping you from starting to bite again is making your nails look great all the time, so that you won't be tempted to try and "fix" them by biting. Your nail length looks pretty good, I'd just maybe file out some of the rough edges if I were you.
The most obvious problem I see here is the dry cuticles, and I'm wondering if you've been picking at them or biting them? If you are, STOP! Your nails look great, but they'd look even better if you had healthy cuticles. There are literally tons of products you can use to moisturize your cuticles, my favorite being Burt's Bees Cuticle Cream. As you can see on related items page, there are a lot of products you can try to help keep them moisturized and healthy if this doesn't work.
Good luck!
Mines not even a bottle like that. It’s more of a tube. I need to try your one and see if it’s any different! https://www.amazon.com/Sally-Hansen-Cuticle-Fortified-Conditioner/dp/B000AAAVJU that’s what mine looks like
On fin and have this issue, though attributes it to liberal hand sanitizer use vs anything else.
Burt’s Bees makes a cuticle cream that works really well. I apply it most mornings and it prevents this.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00013YYS0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_P7BLBbFG52CS4
Thanks everyone! All great tips. I just ordered this hopefully it helps!
Nail oil!
and streghthener/hardener as well as regular shaping. My index and middle fingers peel if I don't file at least 1x every 4 days.
Bliss Kiss nail oil is my holy grail nail oil. http://www.amazon.com/Bliss-Kiss-Simply-Cuticle-Starter/dp/B00DIJPH5I
Matte top coat: Perfect Summer Matte Top Coat Gel... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014A3VGKA?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Stripes on middle finger were done with striping tape: Beaute Galleria 30 Mixed Colors... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JQM5J72?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Cuticle oil: Bliss Kiss Simply Pure Cuticle &... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DYMYY2G?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Golden polish: Elite99 Gel Polish Soak Off UV... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017OWPD9E?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Base coat: Beetles No Wipe Gel Top Coat and... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F12SZDS?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Ball point tool used for design draw on ring finger: Yimart 20PCS Nail Art Design... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06X6BCY7K?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Tool disinfectant: Barbicide Disinfectant 16oz Conc https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00415UVTK?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Uv/LED lamp: SUNUV 24W UV Light LED Nail Dryer... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JGG5CH4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Nail drill: Makartt JD700 Professional... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JRGPH46?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Base color 044: Gel Nail Polish Gift Set, 12 Pcs,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075SBNVJ5?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Step 1: Stop doing damage. Do not pick or pull the hangnails or dead skin you see. Buy a pair of [cuticle clippers] (http://www.amazon.com/Cuticle-Nipper-Professional-Satisfaction-Guaranteed/dp/B00N8AJMXU/ref=sr_1_4?s=beauty&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1416110296&amp;sr=1-4&amp;keywords=cuticle+clippers) and clip any hangnails that you see that bother you. Do not cut live skin, and don't pull and rip your skin, and you stop making things worse.
Step 2: Repair the damage. Apply neosporin (antibiotic ointment) several times a day until the open wounds have healed.
Step 3: Add moisture. Start using a quality moisturizing hand lotion on a regular basis, whenever your hands feel dry, scratchy, or flaky. At the very least, put lotion on before you go to bed so it can soak in overnight.
Step 4: BONUS! For easy added protection from these cuts, apply a [cuticle cream] (http://www.amazon.com/Hoofers-Choice-Nail-Cuticle-Cream/dp/B003JN53I4/ref=pd_sbs_bt_6?ie=UTF8&amp;refRID=0N5A9H5K6MSPBR8M1CJ7) or oil before bed to add even more moisture to your cuticles and prevent cracking and sores.
I'm in school to be a vet tech and am also a shelter volunteer, so I know this problem too. My best advice is to keep everything moisturized, including the nails. Use a good cuticle cream (I like LUSH's lemony flutter or Burts Bees lemon cuticle balm). I've noticed that my nail polish lasts longer when I take care of that. I've also had good luck with a sticky base coat like ORLY Bonder. It's hard to find a combination that will stand up to this kind of wear, though. I usually have to redo my nails if I've been doing a lot of cleaning/sanitizing or wearing gloves for long periods, like in lab.
I've been using Bliss Kiss pens. I actually peel the label off them so I can see the jojoba oil better. I find it really satisfying to watch the tube get smaller and smaller every day.
Definitely should be using cuticle oil 2+ times a day! Pens like these https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J6J9D9O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_zKGPDb92AH19A are great for portability!
Ouch! I know that pain well.
As the other person said, nail oil is great. You can buy nail oil pens pre filled, or you can buy a bunch of empty ones and fill them with your own oil. They make it nice and easy to apply and it means you don’t get oil everywhere.
Apply it every time you remember!
Also, buy some cuticle clippers to clip the hang nails so you don’t pull or tear at them (because ouch! That just causes more pain!).
As for how to stop the picking / biting? That’s a hard one. I pick at the dry skin around my nails and then it gets worse, so I pick at it more ... rinse, repeat. It’s a vicious cycle.
I’ve found wearing coloured polish helps because I want it to last and I want it to look good. Are you allowed to wear colours at work?
/r/calmhands might have some better advice, but these are some starting points for you!
I just saw a nail oil on amazon using a shot from her nail growth video. Truly inconsiderate. https://www.amazon.com/Bliss-Kiss-Simply-Pure-Cuticle/dp/B00DYMYY2G/ref=pd_rhf_se_p_img_5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=9941T9077XTBMN0ZHD6H