How to Trim Toenail Cuticles

Healthy toenails are the result of time and care and the proper tools used to trim toenail cuticles correctly. Trimming the toenail cuticles frequently has many health and aesthetic values. When its done properly, result is cleaner, healthier looking toenails with less susceptibility to infections or toe hangnails.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Soak the feet in a basin of warm water for about ten to fifteen minutes before you begin trimming the cuticles. If you prefer, add a tablespoon of Epsom salt to the warm water. With each foot soaked in Epsom salt, it will help to soften the cuticles and prepare them for cutting.
2. Clean and sterilize all toenail instruments prior to using them. Use sanitizing solution for cleaning care done overnight and wash in soapy, hot water after sanitizing. Keep alcohol and cotton balls nearby just in case you need to spot clean the instruments while you're working.
3. Use a nipper or a v-shaped cuticle remover to trim toenail cuticles. A nipper is more effective since it allows you to have better control over the movement of the instrument. The nipper also helps avoid injury to the skin.
4. Start on one foot at one side of the toe and take the toenail cutting instrument and work around the perimeter of the nail bed paying close attention to the cuticle. Take care to not apply too much pressure to the skin as this might cause you to accidentally cut the patron's skin or foot if you get too close.
5. Repeat the same steps on the opposite foot and end the session, if preferred, with polishing the toenails. With considerable care, healthy toenail cuticles can be achieved in very little time.