I’ve been experiencing dry cuticles these past few months, which led me to finding out more about the causes and care for my cuticles, and eventually deciding to purchase this product.
Before I get to my review, allow me to give you a crash course on Cuticle 101. ;)
What Cuticles Are
Cuticles appear over the nails, where the nails meet the flesh of our fingers and toes. It may appear as an extension of the skin, but it’s actually a protective cover that bridges from the skin across the nail roots.
Functions of Cuticles
They are protective sheaths that grow over the roots of our nails. This is where our nails’ new cells are developed; new cells grow and push out existing nails. This is what causes the dead, whitened part of our nails to grow over the time and require trimming.
The size and thickness of the cuticle varies from one individual to the next, and is based on the size of the nail.
Causes of Dryness
- Many people develop dry cuticles during winter, when low temperatures, low humidity and wind conspire to drain the skin and cuticles of moisture, causing dryness and irritation. At times, redness can also develop in conjunction with the dryness.
- Washing hands excessively.
- Insufficient hydration through our diet.
Prevention Measures/Solutions
- Make sure we drink sufficient water.
- Apply a moisturising lotion onto the cuticle to help lock in moisture.
- Apply a topical treatment.
- Refrain from peeling or scratching off your cuticles.
Based on my research as well as trial and error methods, vitamin E oil and shea butter cream are effective when massaged into the skin once or twice daily. Moisturising gloves are also useful overnight treatment.
Now, For My Review…
In my opening statement, I mentioned that I have dry cuticles – it could also be due to the frequent use of nail polish and nail polish remover. This has been especially apparent since I’ve been painting my nails almost every week. The good news is that this is only a mild issue and easily treated. Yayyy!
I’m an avid user of body lotions and hand creams, though none of the lotions and creams I’ve used actually work. I recently bought a nail and cuticle oil from Guardian at Bangsar Shopping Centre: Sally Hansen Vitamin E Nail & Cuticle Oil. It costs RM 31.88 a bottle.
I’ve been applying it once daily for the past two weeks and I’m already seeing some improvement with the condition of my cuticles - they are not as dry, and appear more moisturised. Before I go to bed, I simply apply it around each finger and toe nail, then gently massage the oil in. The oil doesn’t have a strong scent; it has a very mild scent of vitamin E oil. You'd barely notice it unless you hold your fingers up REALLY close to your nose.
This bottle will surely last for many months and is value for money. I’d recommend it to anyone with dry cuticles!
If you have severely dry nails and cuticles, though, please consult a doctor.
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As always, be good, be safe, and have a fabulous week ahead, my lovelies!! :) xx
Signing off...
~ Lil' Missy ~
