In addition, if you leave old polish on your nails, small chips could get pushed into your nail beds as you’re working on your cuticles, potentially leading to an infection. Unless you have acrylic nails or a particular manicure that requires it, you should avoid using nail polish remover with acetone, which can dry out your nails and cuticles. [2] X Research source
Using a clean towel will help prevent the spread of bacteria to your hands, which could leave you more susceptible to infection once you have pushed back your cuticles.
If you decide to use chemical cuticle remover like these, be sure to read the packaging so you know exactly how long you should leave it on. Otherwise, you risk damaging the nail beneath the cuticle. You can purchase cuticle oil or remover at any beauty supply store.
If you have especially sensitive skin, wrap the tip of the orange stick in cotton before you use it. You can pull apart a cotton ball or use cotton gauze if you have some on hand. You can also push back your cuticles with a soft cloth, a cotton swab, or even just your fingers, but you’ll get a cleaner look by using the orange stick. [8] X Research source
Don’t push too hard or scrape your nails with the orange stick.
When you’re finished, your cuticles should make a smooth, thin line at the base of your nail. If you have more stubborn hangnails or pieces of skin, use a cuticle nipper to remove any final pieces. These tools are specifically designed to minimize cuticle damage. Be careful to only trim the translucent, dead skin, though. Don’t cut the skin along the bottom of your nail.
Before you paint your nails, dry them thoroughly and make sure all traces of oil are gone. It may be helpful to wipe each nail with a cotton ball dipped in a non-acetone polish remover to help dry them out.
Instead of biting your nails, use a nail file to smooth them out if they chip or split.
Wooden orange sticks are meant to be disposable, which is why they’re inexpensive and often come in packs of 10 or more.
