Once or twice a week is usually enough, normally to coincide with your manicure. Using it daily brings no extra benefit and can dry out the skin around the nail. Between applications, what you should do every day is moisturise the cuticle with oil or gel.
No, that is precisely its advantage. Cuticle remover softens dry tissue so you can gently push it back and remove it, without nippers. If a loose hangnail remains, trim it carefully, but avoid cutting away the whole cuticle, which protects the base of the nail.
As long as the manufacturer indicates, which varies by formula: some work in just 30 seconds. Don't leave it on longer than recommended, as they usually contain alkaline actives that can irritate the skin in excess.
Many formulas include soothing ingredients, such as aloe vera, centella asiatica or chamomile, which help the skin tolerate the softening better. Even so, don't apply it to cuts or irritated skin, respect the application time and always finish by moisturising the area.
Cuticle remover softens and helps remove dry tissue, and is used occasionally during a manicure. Cuticle oil nourishes and moisturises the skin around the nail and is applied daily. They complement each other: first the cuticle remover to clean up the area, then the oil to restore moisture.