Choosing Your Cuticle Tool

Healthy cuticles are important to your overall nail health and they also make a big difference in how your hands look. Beautiful nails are impossible when framed by overgrown, dry and ragged cuticles. Depending on your cuticles, you may be able to keep them looking great by pushing them back and moisturizing them. But sometimes cuticles are too overgrown, and trimming is the only option. When this is the case, how do you know which cuticle tool to choose? Here's a quick breakdown of the benefits and drawbacks of scissors and nippers.

Cuticle Scissors are great if you like the security and control of a scissor grip, if you have small nails and if you want a crisp cut line. Fine points on the cutting blades allow you to get into small, tight spaces with the tip and make tiny, precise cuts. The scissors slice through the cuticle, which can be either good or bad, depending on what you prefer and your experience using scissors. It may take a bit of time to get used to the action and be able to make longer, smoother cuts. In the meantime, you could have some jagged edges that can be easily smoothed away with some cuticle lotion or oil.

Cuticle Nippers are perfect if you feel more comfortable with a pliers-type grip. You can choose different jaw sizes depending on the size of your nails and your experience level. Quarter jaw is best for smaller nails and for precise cuts, while half jaw can trim more quickly, especially if you have larger nails or are very familiar with using a nipper. Cuticle Nippers crush and snip off the cuticle, leaving a more rounded edge. 

If you're on a budget, a Cuticle Trimmer is also a great, inexpensive option.  The lightweight, plastic handle provides a secure grip while the sharp V-shaped blade glides over the nail plate to quickly remove unwanted, excess cuticle.  The convenient pouch makes the trimmer easy to store and ideal for travel.