8 Manicure Tricks from the Pros

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Care for Your Cuticles

"People should never cut their cuticles," says celebrity nail expert Jessica Vartoughian. "The cuticle protects the nail from bacteria and infection." Instead, sweep on some cuticle oil or gel to soften the skin and exfoliate dead cells. For extra softening, dip fingertips into a bowl of warm water for a minute or two, and then push cuticles back gently with a metal cuticle pusher. Rinse nails to remove traces of the cuticle oil.

Pro Pick: Tweezerman Metal Cuticle Pusher, Barielle Extra Gentle Cuticle Minimizer

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