There's no better way to up your at-home manicure game than to equip yourself with one of the best cuticle removers. While painting your nails may excite you most, it's still far from being the most important step. Keeping your cuticles nice and neat will result in a much more elevated end-result. That way, you'll ensure that the excess and dried skin surrounding your nail bed isn't in the way when you're applying nail polishes or using at-home gel nail kits.
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But it's not just the exterior aspect that you should encourage you to care for your cuticles. Gentle removal is generally a healthy practice to avoid cracked and peeling cuticles (yikes). Due to how thin the cuticles are, taking care of them requires a proper commitment. This, of course, starts with nourishing, which means using cuticle oils on a regular basis (and if you have dry skin, feel free to apply it daily) and ends with trimming, pushing and removing. And when it comes to the latter, using cuticle removers is key. Simply apply a small amount to cover the skin along the bottom edge of your nails, let it sit for a moment and let it dissolve that unwanted layer of dead skin.
Cuticle removers come in different gel or liquid-y formulas and are perfectly safe to use, provided that you don't over-apply or leave it on longer than recommended. Doing so could irritate your skin and even damage the area.
So if you want to unleash your inner nail tech and give your cuticles that much-needed TLC, we suggest checking out our full edit of the best cuticle removers on the market that also includes cuticle cutters as well as cuticle pushers to truly master an at-home mani and kiss your salon goodbye.
Inspired to change up your manicure arsenal? Check out our guides on the best nail polishes, best nail polish removers, best press-on nails and best at-home gel nail kits. We can also help you pick the best cuticle oil and the best hand cream.
And her nail artist revealed the exact products used…
Scroll to view the best cuticle removers to bring your at-home mani to a whole new level…
Why we love it: This one's a firm favourite in the GLAMOUR office. It's gentle on your skin thanks to its gel formula, which includes both chamomile and aloe. It's also incredibly fast-acting, cutting manicure time down to just one minute. Just make sure not to leave it on longer than instructed and you're grand.
Customers are saying: According to one customer, this product dissolves the cuticles before your very eyes.
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Why we love it: This exfoliating cream cuticle remover is effective in ridding you from those rough, dry cuticles, whether that's on your hands or feet. Just apply it to your cuticles and leave it on for 5-10 minutes and voilà, they should be all softened and ready for trimming. Did we mention it has cupuaçu butter to restore moisture balance?
Customers are saying: Great for treating and restoring dry cuticles. Leaves the entire nail looking healthier.
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Why we love it: If you need your cuticles softened and moisturised, look no further. This handy product includes urea to exfoliate dry skin, glycerin to moisturise and peppermint oil to provide a cool, soothing effect. Did we mention that this softening cuticle remover is both cruelty-free and vegan?
Customers are saying: Gets rid of stubborn cuticles easily. According to several customers, a little goes a long way.
Looking for savings? Check out these FeelUnique discount codes when shopping for the best cuticle removers.
Why we love it: One, two, three, four seconds, and boom, your dried and damaged cuticles are no more. The best part? This product is incredibly gentle in softening and removing excess skin to give your nails the even and attractive outline you deserve. Just remember to wash and dry your nails before continuing with the rest of your manicure.
Customers are saying: One customer notes that this product is great for overgrown nails that you want to tidy up.
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Why we love it: It's not exactly a manicure unless you have a pair of trusty cuticle cutters. Made with durable stainless steel, this product is an essential piece of any manicuring kit, especially if you're looking for a quick and pain-free way to more prepped and clean-looking nails. Need we say more?
Customers are saying: A quality tool with a better grip that your average cuticle cutters.
Enjoy up to 60% off when shopping for the best cuticle removers with these LookFantastic discount codes.
Why we love it: What goes hand-in-hand with a good cuticle remover and cuticle cutter? That's right, a trusty cuticle pusher. Built with stainless steel and coated in enamel, this reliable product comes with a five-year guarantee, so rest assured that it'll last you a while. It comes with a textured body to give you a better grip, too.
Customers are saying: Has a good weight and balance, making it easy to work with it. Comfortable to hold, thanks to the solid rubber middle.
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Why we love it: Quick? Check. Easy? Check. Safe? Check. This cuticle remover from Blue Cross is Amazon's Choice with over 30,000 reviews, and it's clear to see why. It's one of the most reliable ways of removing stubborn cuticles without causing damage to your nails. Just apply for one minute and you should be set.
Customers are saying: Very effective, liquid consistency as opposed to more gel-like products.
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Why we love it: A cuticle remover that micro-exfoliates, prevents build-up and conditions the skin? Where do we sign up? This product has a rich, creamy formula that contains hydroxy acid to help prevent hang nails. A salon-like at-home experience has never seemed so easy and accessible.
Customers are saying: One customer notes that this product reduces cuticle growth.
Get up to 27% off when you shop for the best cuticle removers with these Amazon discount codes.
Why we love it: Go for this cruelty-free and vegan cuticle remover and watch the dried skin around your fingernails melt away. Say goodbye to overgrown cuticles and say hello to healthier-looking nails, all thanks to this product's magic butter-like formula. And as the name suggests, it works practically like magic.
Customers are saying: Tidies up cuticles without bothering or cutting your fingers.
Think smart and save big-time with these Amazon discount codes when you shop for the best cuticle removers.
Bright nails = instant good mood.
What are cuticles?
The cuticle is a thin layer of skin that surrounds the nail bed, which protects your growing nails from bacteria as they emerge from the root. The cuticle area is one of the most delicate areas on our hands that is often prone to drying over time. If neglected, the cuticles may start to look cracked, get damaged and even infected.
How to remove cuticles properly
First and foremost, you should aim to apply cuticle oil to your cuticles on a regular basis in order to soften the area. For the best results, make sure to first soak your nails in warm water. Then, simply apply whatever cuticle remover you have at hand. Since formulas differ, be sure to follow the precise instructions for the exact product that you have, and don’t leave it on for longer than advised. Next, use a cuticle pusher tool to gently push back the cuticle and carefully trim excess skin using a cuticle cutter. It’s crucial that you don’t overdo it and don’t cut off the entire thing as this could result in a rather painful experience and an unsightly cut. If you’re done with your manicure, simply apply some cuticle oil over the top and massage it in. Otherwise, feel free to file your nails and paint away!
For more shoppable beauty content from Glamour UK Commerce Writer Denise Primbet, follow her on Twitter @deniseprimbet and Instagram @deniseprimbet.
