Tips on How to Keep Up on Your Nail Care
You hear a lot about taking good care of your skin and body, but very little attention ever seems to be given to the nails. Even if you have flawless skin, your overall look can be ruined by nails that are broken, dirty, or unhealthy. Your nails, both fingernails, and toenails, deserve love, too. You can always go to a nail salon on a frequent basis or here are some tips on how to keep up on your nail care.
Use Good Nail Hygiene
Trim your nails regularly. When you do, use sharp scissors and cut them straight across. Next, gently round their edges. This can help to maximize their strength. Keeping your toenails trimmed can be helpful for preventing injuries. When filing your fingernails, don’t use a rough emery board. Instead, use a fine, smooth board and only file in one direction instead of back and forth. Clean and sanitize all of your nail tools between each use.
Don’t Bite Nails or Cuticles
Biting your fingernails can cause significant damage. Biting or picking at your cuticles, even trimming them, is also not recommended. The cuticles act as a protective barrier that keeps out bacteria and fungus. When you bite or cut the cuticles, you essentially open this barrier. So, not only do you risk causing your cuticles to look ragged and swollen, but you also risk potential infections that can cause permanent nail damage. It is best to leave your cuticles alone.
Avoid Overexposure to Water
You should keep your nails clean and dry. Water under the fingernails can promote bacterial growth. Overexposure can contribute to nail splitting. When washing dishes, you should wear cotton-lined rubber gloves. These same types of gloves should also be used when handling harsh cleaning products, which can otherwise cause the nails to become dry and brittle.
Moisturize
When you moisturize your hands and feet, don’t stop at your skin. You should also rub moisturizer on your nails and cuticles. This can help your cuticles to look healthier and prevent your nails from breaking due to dryness. A small amount of oil on the cuticles and nails can help to reduce the risk of chipping and breaking.
Eat a Healthy Diet
What you eat affects your whole body, including your nails. Certain vitamins and minerals can help to keep your nails strong and healthy, preventing them from becoming too soft or brittle. Vitamins A and C, as well as iron, are essential for your nails. You can get these vitamins by eating carrots, citrus fruits, and dark green leafy vegetables. Biotin is also important and can be found in foods such as egg yolks, nuts, seeds, avocados, and sweet potato.
Quit Smoking
Smoking can do a lot to your nails. It can deprive nails of oxygen, leaving them dry, cracked, and peeling. A lack of oxygen can also contribute to slow growth. Cracked and peeling nails leaves them more susceptible to infections. The heat from cigarettes can damage your cuticles. Smoking can also leave your fingernails an unsightly yellow. Quitting smoking is not only good for your general health, but it is also good for the health of your nails.
Get Regular Mani-Pedis
Mani-pedis are a great way to relax and pamper yourself. These trips can also help keep your nails clean and healthy. Don’t just go to any old salon though. It is important that you seek out a licensed salon that uses good sanitary practices. The technicians should be knowledgeable about nail care and the tools and products used. Do some research before making an appointment and don’t be afraid to ask any questions.
It’s easy to forget about your nails. They’re only a small part of your body and there’s typically not as much stress put on nail care as there is on skin care. With good nail care, you can help to keep your nails healthy and looking their best.
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