What is a cuticle remover for and how to use it

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In the world of skincare procedures, there are several options for getting rid of cuticles: classic trimming using cutting manicure tools, European, in which the main role is given to the machine, and the youngest, but no less popular and effective method of removing unwanted skin around the nails using a remover. Next we will talk about what kind of product this is and how to choose it correctly.

What is a remover and why is it needed?

A cuticle remover is a liquid or gel substance that, when applied, softens the skin and facilitates its quick and painless removal from the surface of the nail. It is also used to eliminate not too rough growths on the nail ridges. This method of care is suitable for removing cuticles at home, and is often used in children's manicure, as it is the safest of all existing ones.

Where can I buy?

You already know how to use a cuticle remover and you can safely go to the store to buy it. You can buy this product both in regular retail outlets and in online stores that sell manicure products.

For example, you can visit the website of a distributor of cosmetics and materials for the nail industry - the Master Proffessional company. In the online store you will find almost everything you need for manicure, extensions, skin care, depilation and other things important for a modern woman. The website offers a wide range of oils and cuticle removers with the aroma of natural fruits - cherry, strawberry, apple, pineapple. With them, the process of performing a home manicure will always be easy and enjoyable.

How to choose a cuticle remover

The shelves in nail stores are replete with all kinds of jars and bottles, and sometimes you can get confused when choosing one product or another. To prevent this from happening when purchasing a remover, you first need to decide which product you need: alkaline or acidic . They are identical in purpose, but differ in composition. The first product contains a high pH level, and the second contains alpha hydroxyl acids. If you are allergic to chemical components or your skin is too sensitive, pay special attention to the composition.

The optimal solution would be a simple test that can be done right in the store. Apply a small amount to the crook of your elbow or wrist area. If you feel itching or burning within 10-15 minutes, you should not use this product . You should also read the instructions and follow them strictly. Be especially careful during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

"OPI" is the most famous world brand

• Fortunately, it is also possible to buy OPI products in our country. True, they have a high price. But their quality is excellent!

“Avoplex from OPI” has AHA fruit acids as its active ingredient, which do an excellent job of destroying the bonds between dead cells and living tissues. Avocado oil moisturizes and nourishes the cuticle.

This product does not need to be washed off, it does not contain harmful substances. Moreover, they are recommended to treat their cuticles between visits to the salon. Then the cuticle will not grow. Perhaps the only cuticle product that can be safely recommended for home use is anti-cuticle from OPI.

How to use cuticle remover correctly

To remove cuticles using a cuticle remover, follow these steps:

1. First you need to prepare your hands. Wipe off excess nail polish. To do this, it is better to use a remover that does not contain acetone. The fact is that it dries out the nail plate and it becomes brittle. If you plan to paint your nails after a hand hygiene procedure, you should not treat them with removers containing oils, as they will make the coating stick worse. Before the next step, wash your hands with soap.

2. Shake before applying the product. Then distribute it over the desired areas using a special brush or pipette, which usually comes with the kit. It is better to apply it first to three nails, and then to the remaining two, and using the same principle on the other hand. This method of application is the most optimal, because if you underexpose the product, it will not work, and if you overexpose, you can feel how the acids gradually corrode the skin and your fingers begin to burn slightly. To easily get rid of unwanted skin, just hold the remover for 2-3 minutes.

3. Now you need an orange stick or pusher, then choose what is more convenient for you. Begin to gently push the cuticle towards the nail hole and gradually peel it off. Don't forget about the pterygium - it also needs to be removed. Be careful, it is very easy to get hurt at this stage.

4. Sometimes after acid removal of the cuticle, small pieces of skin remain that need to be remove with nippers. This often happens if the skin is rough and builds up a lot.

5. To wash off the remaining acid composition, wash your hands with soap. When you dry them, use a soft terry towel and use it to push back the cuticles as you dry. This additional action is very effective and can be used every time you wash your hands so that the skin around the nail grows more slowly and is softer.
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6. In conclusion treat the socket and periungual ridges cuticle oil. The microelements included in its composition actively nourish the skin and prevent it from drying out. In addition, if you use the oil twice a day, your manicure will last longer. In order to use this little trick and not forget about it, we advise you to place the bottle of oil in a visible place.

Advice from experienced manicurists

To keep your nails strong, you need to follow the following rules:

1. A wooden stick should be used to push back the cuticle. Before the procedure, you need to soften the skin by steaming your hands in a bath. This is necessary so that the skin does not become rough or crack.

Well-groomed nails

1. Don't cut the cuticle. This can allow microbes to enter the human body. Circumcision also provokes nail deformation and the formation of white spots.
2. To soften the cuticle, baths and masks are used. You can also dip your finger in half a lemon.
3. The cuticle skin needs to be moisturized with cream and mask.
4. You should not bite your nails; harmful microbes enter the bloodstream through damaged skin.
5. Don't be afraid to use varnish. You should replace bad cosmetics with high-quality ones that protect the nail from harmful effects, mechanical damage, and waterlogging. To prevent bacteria from developing, the plate must be disinfected before the procedure.
6. It is necessary to file and polish the nail only in one direction, since incorrect actions lead to cracks that spoil the structure of the plate.
7. Don't get carried away with polishing devices and buffs. They reduce the top layer of the nail, which leads to brittleness and splitting.
8. Nail polish removers can be used no more than once a week.

Well-groomed nails always attract the attention of others, so you need to take care of them every day to look perfect.

Homemade cuticle remover

If for some reason you cannot use a professional cuticle remover, we will tell you what you can use to replace it at home. You just need to dissolve a small amount of sea salt in enough warm water to let your hands down. Sea salt is used in many cosmetic products as it is an excellent natural antiseptic.

You need to add 2-3 drops of essential oil into the resulting solution: lavender oil and tea rose oil will have a calming effect, and citrus and pine oils will have an invigorating effect. Choose the one that is most relevant to you. Soak your hands in this fragrant liquid for 5 to 20 minutes, and then push back the cuticles with an orange stick and remove any remaining skin in a convenient way.

Reviews of removers from popular companies

Regarding which brand is better to choose, you can read the results of the experiment among our readers, who tested cuticle removers from several popular manufacturers and shared their reviews.

Alla, 35 years old

I’m one of those women who won’t even go to the store without a manicure. It is important for me that my hands are in perfect condition, so I try all the new products that are offered in nail services today. This type of fight against growing cuticles, like removal without trimming, suits me better than all others. I tested the Domix cuticle remover. What can I say, the product is quite worthy, it coped with the task with a bang. The only thing that was not very convenient was that the gel had to be squeezed out of the tube. I prefer to use a regular brush. But this does not affect the result, so I give it five stars.

Expert's comment: This manufacturer has taken into account the fact that some clients will find it more convenient to use a brush. Domix has removers in a spherical glass bottle with a brush. Ask in professional hand cosmetics stores.

Asya, 38 years old

I was asked to try the cuticle remover from the popular company Kodi and share my review. I read the instructions and applied the product for the specified amount of time. But I couldn’t withstand that much, as the skin around the nail began to burn unpleasantly. I had to wash it off. I haven't tried reapplying.

Specialist comment: This reaction may be caused by individual intolerance to one or more of its components. Perhaps there were wounds or microcracks on the hands, sometimes they are not visible. After at least a week, try repeating the procedure, after doing a test on your wrist.

Yulia, 28 years old

I agreed to try the Uno cuticle remover with lanolin and leave a review; before that I used a similar product from Orly, so I can compare. Orly has a jar of a traditional shape for their design with a transparent matte liquid. Apply with a brush. Uno has a small tinted glass bottle with white gel. Apply with a pipette. In terms of quality, both products performed well. I liked Uno better as it doesn't smear when applied.

Expert's comment: Yes, both companies have been on the market for a long time and are famous for the quality of their products, and when choosing between them, each woman can give preference to the method of applying the drug that suits her best.

Comparison table of characteristics

Here is a comparative table of characteristics of the most popular removers on the Russian market.

Video on how to use cuticle remover

• This video introduces the viewer to the acidic cuticle remover from Cody. If you are interested in seeing clearly what it is, what it looks like and what it is used for, press play.

• The next video shows what role the remover plays in the European version of manicure. The master also demonstrates how to use an orange stick and a pusher so that you can choose what is more convenient for you.

Have you used a remover? Did you find our tips for using this cuticle remover helpful? We will be interested in receiving feedback from you in the comments.