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The Surprising Reason Your Nails Look Like Crap

Here's a hint: It all comes down to cuticles

by Melanie Rud Chadwick  |  COMMENT

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If no matter what you do, your nails are constantly breaking, chipping, peeling, or just generally look unattractive, it's time to consider the state of your cuticles. The skin at the base of the nail plays a crucial role when it comes to nail health: "The cuticles cover the area underneath the nail bed known as the matrix, which is where growth begins," explains editorial manicurist Geraldine Holford. A damaged cuticle can lead to an unhealthy matrix, which results in an unhealthy nail. And that aside, let's talk about the aesthetics -- there's nothing cute about ragged cuticles. "Your nails will never look nice if your cuticles are a mess. Well-groomed cuticles are the foundation for healthy, attractive nails," says hand model Susan Schell. To learn how to keep your cuticles -- and by extension, your nails -- in tip-top shape, we went straight to the people who best know the importance of cuticle care -- manicurists and hand models. Ahead, they share their expert advice.

Image via Jennifer Fisher Jewelry

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