Dry Cuticles: Causes, Treatment and Prevention

Published: September 2025

Cuticles may seem like a small detail, but they play a vital role in nail and skin health. Acting as a protective seal between your nails and skin, cuticles help keep out bacteria and prevent infection. When cuticles are dry, cracked, or peeling, they not only look unhealthy but may also leave nails more vulnerable to discomfort and irritation. 

This guide explores the causes of dry cuticles, symptoms to look out for, and how to care for and prevent them, with dermatologist-approved product recommendations. 

The cuticle is a thin layer of skin that sits at the base of your nail, where the nail meets the skin of the finger. Although it may appear small, it plays a crucial role in overall nail health. 

The cuticle works as part of the body’s natural defence system by:

• Acting as a barrier against bacteria and irritants that could otherwise enter through the nail bed
• Sealing the delicate area between the nail plate and surrounding skin, preventing infection and damage
• Protecting and supporting the growth of new, healthy nail tissue 

Well-cared-for cuticles are essential not only for the appearance of the nails but also for maintaining their strength and resilience over time. 

Wondering why your cuticles are dry? As delicate parts of the skin, they can be affected by everyday habits as well as environmental changes. Common causes include: 

• Cold weather and dry air - low humidity outdoors and indoor heating can both draw moisture out of the skin. 
• Frequent handwashing - essential for hygiene, but frequent washing can strip away the natural oils that protect the skin barrier. 
• Cleaning products - exposure to detergents and other chemicals may irritate and dehydrate the cuticle area. 
• Lifestyle habits - nail biting, picking, or frequent manicures can damage the cuticle bed. 
• Dehydration or poor diet - not drinking enough water or lacking key nutrients can affect skin health. 
• Working outdoors - regular exposure to cold air, water, or rough surfaces increases the risk of cracked cuticles.

If your cuticles are dry and cracked, they may also be more prone to infection. Signs to look out for include redness, swelling, or pain, in which case it’s recommended you seek advice from a dermatologist. 

It is often easy to spot when cuticles are becoming too dry. Since they are thin and delicate, even small changes can quickly become visible or cause discomfort. You may be dealing with dried cuticles if you notice: 

• Cracking, peeling, or flaking skin around the nails - this is one of the first signs that the cuticle barrier is lacking moisture. 
• Sensitivity or discomfort when touched - dry cuticles may feel sore or tender, especially after washing hands or exposure to cold air. 
• Irritation or redness - inflammation can develop as the skin barrier weakens.
• Hangnails (small tears in the cuticle) - these can catch on clothing, cause pain, and may increase the risk of infection. 

In more severe cases, cracked cuticles may also bleed or allow bacteria to enter, which is why it is important to treat dryness early.

Dry cuticles can be uncomfortable, but with the correct care, they can be restored to a healthy condition. Effective treatment focuses on replenishing moisture, protecting the skin barrier, and building habits that prevent future dryness. 

Use a dermatologist-recommended hand cream daily to restore hydration and prevent dryness. Eucerin UreaRepair Plus 5% Urea Hand Cream is a great option, containing Urea to attract moisture, Ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier, and Natural Moisturising Factors (NMFs) to provide lasting hydration, all of which help treat and protect dry cuticles:

• Provides immediate relief for dry and very dry hands 
• Strengthens the skin barrier to prevent further moisture loss 
• Clinically proven to keep skin hydrated for 48 hours 

When cuticles become very dry or cracked, they need more than just daily hydration. At this stage, using products that provide a protective layer over the skin is key to soothing discomfort and supporting regeneration. 

• Eucerin UreaRepair Plus 10% Urea Foot Cream - intensely hydrates and protects toe cuticles with a barrier that supports skin regeneration. 
• Eucerin Aquaphor Soothing Skin Balm - provides everyday hydration for dry cuticles. 
• Eucerin UreaRepair Plus Lotion 10% - restores moisture for dry, flaky skin on the hands or body. 
• Eucerin 5% Urea Gentle Shower Gel - gently cleanses without drying out

Alongside specialised creams, there are additional ways to keep cuticles nourished and flexible. These methods focus on softening the skin, preventing water loss, and giving your cuticles the extra care they need. 

• Cuticle oils and creams (with vitamin E, almond oil, or sunflower oil) provide extra nourishment and help keep cuticles soft and flexible, reducing the risk of cracking. 
• Emollients such as coconut oil or petroleum jelly create a light protective layer that locks in moisture, soothes irritation, and supports the skin barrier. 
• Soaking cuticles in warm water softens the skin, making it easier to push them back gently and helping to prevent splits or hangnails.  
• Overnight care with a thick layer of moisturiser, such as Eucerin UreaRepair Plus 5% Urea Hand Cream and cotton gloves, delivers intensive hydration, leaving cuticles smoother and more resilient by morning. 

Everyday habits have a significant impact on the health of your cuticles. Recognising and avoiding behaviours that contribute to dryness can make a real difference in keeping them comfortable and protected. 

• Stop biting or picking at cuticles - saliva contains digestive enzymes that can break down the skin, making dryness worse and leaving cuticles more vulnerable to irritation or infection. 
• Take breaks from nail polish or removers - frequent use can dry out nails and weaken the surrounding cuticle area, so allowing time to recover helps maintain stronger, healthier nails. 
• Avoid alcohol-based hand sanitisers and harsh soaps - these can strip away the skin's natural oils. If you have sensitive skin, they may increase irritation and dryness around the cuticles. 

Once cuticles have been restored, consistent daily care is the best way to keep them healthy and protected. Preventive habits help maintain hydration, reduce irritation, and support the skin barrier long term.

• Use hand cream daily - regular application helps maintain hydration; keep Eucerin UreaRepair Plus 5% Urea Hand Cream with you during colder months for on-the-go protection. 
• Stay hydrated - drinking enough water supports skin health, and using a humidifier can help counteract the drying effects of indoor heating. 
• Wear gloves - protecting your hands when cleaning, washing dishes, or spending time outdoors in cold weather helps prevent cuticle dryness. 
• Be mindful with manicures - avoid cutting your cuticles, and if you do have them trimmed, make sure salon tools are properly sterilised.   

Dry cuticles are common but manageable. With the right balance of hydration, barrier protection, and prevention, you can restore comfort and keep nails looking healthy. Backed by dermatological expertise, Eucerin UreaRepair Plus 5% Urea Hand Cream is clinically proven to be effective for treating dry cuticles.