Dermatologists say there's no good reason to cut the cuticles. Cutting them could open the door to infection or irritation. "If you remove the cuticle, that space is wide open, and anything can get in there," Scher says. Cutting your cuticles can also lead to nail problems, such as ridges, white spots, or white lines.

Should you trim your cuticles?

Trimming or cutting cuticles during a manicure is purely cosmetic and doesn't benefit the nail in any way. In fact, it's actually harmful to your nails. ... Cuticles should never be cut or trimmed as it leads to infections and ultimately damage to the nail.

Is it healthy to push back your cuticles?

Filing back and forth can weaken nails. -Leave the cuticles alone. Cuticles protect the nail root, so it's best to not cut or push back the cuticles.