How to paint your nails without touching the cuticle: 4 effective ways

How to paint your nails without touching the cuticle: 4 effective ways
The perfect manicure is not only about beautiful colour, but also impeccable neatness. One of the most frequent challenges when applying nail polish is to avoid getting it on the cuticle. Probably each of us has left a blot on the cuticle at least once, especially when we first tried to paint our nails ourselves. And sometimes more than one! Let's be honest, many of us have had nail polish not only on our nails, but also on our fingers.

But don't worry! There are a few simple but effective techniques that will help you achieve a professional result and make your manicure neat and beautiful. Follow these tips - and your nails will always look flawless.

1. Cream or Vaseline


Before applying nail polish, lubricate your cuticles with petroleum jelly or greasy cream to protect the skin from possible stains from the polish. After finishing your manicure, simply wipe the cuticle with a cotton disc or stick: the cream will also remove excess lacquer.
However, this method has its disadvantages. Cream can easily smudge, and if it gets on the nail plate, it will reduce the durability of the coating. In addition, for gradient manicure this method is not suitable: the sponge will absorb the cream, which will make it difficult to create a smooth transition of colours.

2. Painter's tape


Use painter's tape or special stickers to protect the cuticle - they perform the same function but require no additional preparation. This method is especially good for gradient manicures, although it takes longer and requires care. However, it can be difficult to fully protect the cuticle, as the tape does not always fit tightly enough. 

3. PVA glue


PVA glue is a great helper for protecting cuticles from nail polish. Simply apply the glue to the skin around your nail and cuticle, ensuring a fairly thick layer. Wait for it to dry completely and become transparent. After that, you can safely proceed with the application of the nail polish. When the manicure is completed, easily remove the film of glue, and with it will go all the excess traces of lacquer from the skin. The only disadvantage of this method is that you need to wait a little while for the glue to dry.
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4. Silicone-based product


You can buy a special silicone-based product that works in a similar way to PVA glue: it can be easily removed with a film. Unlike glue, it dries much faster. Of course, you do not always want to spend extra money on a manicure, but such products are offered by various brands, and their price is often quite acceptable.

We recommend trying all four options and choosing the one that works best for you.

Read also: How to apply gel varnish evenly under the cuticle: a beginner's trick
Published: 02.04.2025 08:51 Times Read: 828