Cuticle Care Myths Busted: What You Really Need to Know for Healthy, Beautiful Nails

Cuticle Care Myths Busted: What You Really Need to Know for Healthy, Beautiful Nails

By Lisa M. Samad – Licensed Nail Instructor & Founder of Misaura

Cuticles may be small, but they play a big role in nail health. They protect your nails from bacteria, support healthy growth, and—when cared for properly—give your hands that polished, salon-fresh look.

But here’s the thing: there’s a lot of misinformation out there about how to care for them. Today, I’m busting the biggest cuticle care myths I’ve heard in my 30+ years as a nail tech—so you can protect your nails and keep them looking their best.

Myth #1: “Cuticles Should Be Cut Off Completely”

The Truth:
Cutting your cuticles too aggressively can lead to infections, irritation, and weaker nail growth. Your cuticles are a protective barrier—removing them entirely leaves your nails vulnerable.

✅ Do This Instead:
Gently push them back after softening in warm water or during a shower, and use a cuticle oil (like LISHE Cuticle Oil) daily to keep them soft and healthy.

Myth #2: “Cuticle Oil is Just for Looks”

The Truth:
Cuticle oil isn’t just for shine—it’s a treatment. It hydrates the skin, strengthens nails, and helps prevent hangnails and peeling.

✅ Do This Instead:
Apply cuticle oil morning and night, and more often in cold or dry weather. Think of it as skincare for your nails.

Myth #3: “Peeling Cuticles is Harmless”

The Truth:
Picking or peeling cuticles can cause tears in the skin that allow bacteria in, leading to painful infections and inflamed nail beds.

✅ Do This Instead:
If you have dry, ragged edges, soften them with cuticle oil and gently trim only the loose, dead skin—never live tissue.

Myth #4: “Nail Polish Protects Cuticles”

The Truth:
Polish protects nails from staining, but it doesn’t moisturize or protect your cuticles. In fact, frequent polish changes with acetone removers can dry out your cuticles even more.

✅ Do This Instead:
Always rehydrate with cuticle oil after removing polish or soaking off enhancements.

Myth #5: “You Only Need Cuticle Care Before a Manicure”

The Truth:
Cuticle care isn’t a once-a-week (or once-a-month) thing. Healthy nails start with consistent daily care, not just salon visits.

✅ Do This Instead:
Make cuticle care part of your everyday beauty routine—just like you do with moisturizer or lip balm.

My Daily Cuticle Care Routine

Morning:

  • A sweep of LISHE Cuticle Oil before leaving for the day.

Evening:

  • Apply cuticle oil before bed so it works overnight.

  • Massage it in for 1–2 minutes to stimulate blood flow and nail growth.

Shop the Misaura Cuticle Essentials

💡 Final Tip: Healthy cuticles = healthy nails. Skip the old myths, stick to the science, and your nails will thank you.

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