Even if you want pretty nails, don't remove your cuticles... You could get ‘this disease’

Some people regularly remove their cuticles to maintain a neat nail shape. However, carelessly removing cuticles can irritate the skin and expose you to bacterial infections. What role do cuticles play?

The cuticle is a layer formed by cells covering the body's surface that have partially hardened. It acts as a protective barrier for the body by blocking the entry of foreign substances, such as bacteria. In fact, the cuticle seals the space between the exposed nail and the skin, preventing foreign substances like bacteria from easily entering the body. Even when a wound forms between the nail and the skin, bacteria cannot easily invade. Furthermore, the cuticle firmly supports the nail, so removing it carelessly can weaken the nail.

Removing cuticles carries the risk of various side effects. Cuticles are typically removed using tools such as knives, scissors, or cuticle pushers. This process can cause microscopic abrasions, increasing the risk of bacterial or viral infection or inflammation. If inflammation occurs, the nails may not grow smoothly and could grow deformed. In severe cases, the nails may fall off or lead to paronychia. Paronychia is a condition in which bacteria infect the area around the fingernail, causing inflammation. Symptoms of paronychia include swelling, a sensation of heat, pain, and pus.

While it usually heals naturally, it can rarely lead to cellulitis. Cellulitis is an inflammatory disease caused by bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, penetrating the dermis and subcutaneous tissues beneath the skin. It is characterized by a wide and deep affected area. If swelling and pain worsen over time, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Treatment involves medications such as antibiotics and antifungals, and if the pus is severe, drainage is performed under local anesthesia.

It is more important to manage cuticles with moisturizers than to remove them. Just like skin, cuticles crack and peel easily. Providing sufficient moisture using oil or cream is helpful. Put a small amount of moisturizer on your hand and rub it into the cuticles. If the cracking or peeling of the cuticles is severe, using Vaseline is recommended. 90% of nails are composed of keratin, a type of protein. Therefore, protein-rich foods such as eggs, milk, and beef, as well as vitamins B· vitamin C· Consuming vegetables and grains rich in vitamin D frequently is also helpful.