How to Check Cuticles for a Manicure

In today's society people often judge you by the appearance of your nails. There's the famous story of Princess Di who was afraid to show her engagement ring at first because of the condition of her hands. Here is a tip on how to check your cuticles to see if it's time for a manicure. It's a great excuse to get to the spa.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Look for dry cracked cuticles. During the winter months especially, skin and cuticles can become dry and cracked. If this is the case, hit the spa.
2. Check for redness or tenderness along the cuticle. This is most likely the sign of dry skin. It should be noted that if they are red, swollen and have pus or water-like substance coming out of them, then that's an infection. Never go to that spa again and see a dermatologist immediately.
3. See if your nail bed has the "half-moon." A perfect cuticle allows a little half-moon of white skin under the nail to show through. If your fingers aren't showing the half-moon, then it's time for a manicure.
4. Determine whether you have short nails. If the length of your cuticle looks particularly long, and therefore your nail seems small, it's time to get to the spa and have a manicure so your cuticles can be trimmed back.

Tips & Warnings

• Manicures aren't just for women anymore. Men, particularly men in business, are getting them with regularity. When you go to shake a hand in business, nothing is worse than a less than desirable hand. Save the grease for the garage.