Where your nail meets your skin is your cuticle, and it’s one way that your body arms itself. The cuticle protects the new nail as it grows out from the matrix (nail root) and it also functions to guard against infection. When you cut them, they tend to grow back thicker and harder, and allow access for fungus and bacteria to enter into the skin and nails. Regularly trim your nails to a length that’s functionally conducive to your daily lifestyle demands and avoid biting or picking at them, which can also lead to infections. The best way to care for your cuticles is to keep your hands clean and regularly apply a vitamin enriched moisturizing lotion to soften your skin. Habitually using a moisturizer on your hands will keep them protected and minimize the formation of hang nails.
