Peeling Cuticles

Waking up one morning and finding your nail cuticles peeling can be quite distressing and unsightly. Though many a time, this peeling may not be noticed, painful nail cuticles peeling can be quite annoying as it can cause hindrance to daily activities. Peeling cuticles is not only a matter of cosmetic concern, it can also be signs of some health conditions like nutritional deficiency and poor health. The cuticles are made of dead skin cells and are a part of the body's natural defense mechanism. Hence, it is essential to take proper cuticle care measures to prevent them from damage.

What are Cuticles

The nails of the hands and feet have small folds of skin at the base. These thickened folds of skin are known as cuticles or eponychia (sing. eponychium). The main function of these skin folds is to keep the nails anchored to the fingers and also ensure that they are strong and healthy. They also act as a protective shield against a number of infections and also from bacterial and fungal infestation. Sometimes, small tears may occur in the cuticles and making them protrude from their attachment. These are also called hangnails and are hardly noticed. Overgrown and peeling cuticles are a part of the body's natural process of wear and tear. Only when these dried and flaking cuticles stick to the fabric, do they come into notice.

What Triggers Cuticles to Peel?

There can be many reasons why individuals may experience peeling cuticles, one of them being dry cuticles. This can trigger pain, when open cuticles come in contact with water, any spice or chemicals.

• One of the primary causes of cuticles peeling off is, dry skin. When the skin loses moisture, it begins to become dehydrated and dries up, which may cause the cuticle to detach itself from the nail base.
• The growth of nail fungus called onychomycosis at the site of the cuticles can lead to infection. This infection can also damage the nails and make them dry and chapped.
• If you have the habit of biting nails, quit it as it can loosen the cuticles, making them lose their elasticity.
• Overuse of nail cosmetics and manicuring can lead to infected cuticles which can be quite painful.
• Some other causes for the occurrence of peeling cuticles is injury to the nails, over-clipping of the cuticles and even stress.

How to Stop Cuticles from Peeling Off?

Peeling cuticles can be painful at times and may also bleed. In order to prevent further infection, you must take a few necessary precautions.

• Trim the overgrown cuticles on a routine basis and use ample moisturizer to keep them from dislodging from the nails.
• Don't overexpose your nails to water or harsh chemicals, as these may only worsen the condition.
• Never tear off the hangnails as these may rupture the adjoining area, making it prone to bacterial infections.
• Apply essential oils like concentrated orange oil, tea tree oil or jojoba oil to the nails before going to bed as these oils retain the moisture in the cuticles and prevent them from cracking.
• An orange stick, which is a cuticle care product can be used to push back the cuticles.
• Apart from the measures for cuticle care at home, eating a balanced diet is also essential to prevent this nail problem.

There are also many methods to prevent cuticles from peeling. Following a proper nail care regimen will prevent the drying and peeling of cuticles, and also keep the nails in good condition.