Follow these nail care tips if you want to have strong and healthy nails
Here are the nail care tips from nail care experts in order for you to achieve strong and healthy nails.
Some might be thinking that caring for their nails is not that important but this is also a part of good grooming.
Based on the article from Good Housekeeping, here are the signs of healthy nails:
- Nail plates are a pinkish-white color
- Cuticles are existent (so don’t cut them!)
- Nails and white tips are even lengths
- Prominent half-moon shaped white section (called the lunula) at nail base
If you haven’t achieved this status yet, then, it is time for you to pay attention on your nails.
Here are the nail care tips from experts:
Clean your hands
It is basic for everyone to clean hands but you must do this before doing anything. You can also use an acetone-free product to remove the nail polish on your nails. According to Dr. Ava Shamban, author of Heal Your Skin, it is advisable to apply soap to a toothbrush, then gently scrubbing your nails and skin.
Treat your nails gently
Scrubbing them too roughly can actually expose you to infection because they are also delicate parts of your body. Also, avoid using metal tools under the nail. According to the article, too much digging can cause the nail plate to separate from the skin and it is called onycholysis. NYC dermatologist Dr. Janet Prystowsky said that this can also lead to an irregular white, arching nail tip.
Clip your nails regularly
The simple act of trimming your nails regularly is part of nail care tips that you must follow. Experts said that you should clip your nails every two weeks but you can adjust depending on how your nails respond.
Health over length
Some prefer long nails because they love how it looks but if breakage concern comes in, then choose health over length.
Be ready with a nail file
Dr. Prystowsky suggests keeping a nail file handy to smooth away any rough edges that happen on the spot, especially to those who have work and gym routines that can cause a lot of wear and tear. Take note, in using the nail file, work in one direction with the grain of your nail for a smoother finish.
Take care of your nail tools, too
Cleaning your nail tools by disinfecting them regularly is also important. This will make your nails happy and infection-free. Experts advise washing metal tools with soap and water and then wiping down with rubbing alcohol.
Don’t mind your cuticles
The cuticle seals the area at the base of the nail, so, cutting and removing it can lead to the breakage of the seal of protection. Dr. Debbie Palmer, dermatologist and creator of Replere has this tip in treating your cuticle: “gently push back the cuticle once a week with a wooden orange stick after getting out of the shower, then massage them with a cuticle oil or thick, creamy lotion.”
Use base coat to protect your nails
Good Housekeeping cited this: “Dr. Prystowsky points out that this step not only protects the nail from being stained by the polish, but also helps the color look more saturated and opaque with just one coat.”
Read the polish labels
Dr. Debbie Palmer warns people not to buy polish with toxic chemicals such as dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde, and toluene, as these toxins can contribute to brittleness, splitting, and cracking.
Eat protein-rich food
Improve the condition of your nails by consuming protein-rich food. Your fingernails are made of a protein called keratin, so, indulged with protein-rich foods like beans, fish, and nuts.
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