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Softeners are commonly used in nail care to improve the condition of the cuticle, eponychium, hyponychium, and lateral sidewalls. However, the cuticle specifically serves as a protective barrier for the nail matrix beneath it. It is made from dead skin cells, and its primary function is to prevent infections and keep moisture from entering the nail bed.

While softeners can sometimes be beneficial for the cuticle in terms of making it softer and more pliable for easier push-back during manicures, excessive use of softeners may weaken the cuticle. Therefore, it's generally preferred to maintain the health of the cuticle without over-reliance on softening agents.

The other areas mentioned—the eponychium, hyponychium, and lateral sidewall—are more directly impacted by softeners, as these areas can benefit from increased moisture and flexibility, helping to prevent hangnails and other forms of damage. Thus, the advised approach is to limit the use of softeners primarily to those areas, making the cuticle the one that does not benefit as much from their use.