What instrument is primarily used for trimming the cuticles?

The correct instrument for trimming the cuticles is the cuticle nipper. This tool is specifically designed to trim away excess cuticle skin that can accumulate around the base of the nails. It has sharp, angled blades that allow for precise cutting, making it easier to manage and maintain the health of the nail bed.

When using a cuticle nipper, it's essential to exercise care to avoid cutting too deeply, which can lead to injury or infection. The design of the cuticle nipper allows for a clean cut, which helps to prevent hangnails and other issues related to overgrown cuticles.

The other instruments mentioned serve different purposes. A cuticle pusher is used to push back the cuticles rather than cut them. Butterfly scissors are more general-purpose scissors that aren’t specialized for nail care. A file is typically used to smooth the edges of the nails rather than for cuticle maintenance.