Proper nail care is essential for maintaining not only the aesthetics but also the overall health of your nails. Nails serve as protective layers for sensitive fingertips, and their condition can provide valuable insights into your overall well-being. From preventing common nail problems to promoting good hygiene practices, this article focuses on nail care to ensure the health and strength of your nails. Whether you are dealing with brittle nails, fungal infections or simply seeking to improve nail health, these 10 best nail care tips will help you keep your nails in optimal condition.
10 Best Nail Care Tips
Here are the best nail care tips you must follow in order to ensure that your nails stay healthier and stronger:
- Keep Your Nails Clean and Dry
Effective nail care starts with addressing the root cause of most problems – bacteria and germs. Regularly cleaning and drying your nails is essential to prevent their breeding. Keeping your nails clean and dry also avoids the accumulation of dirt and bacteria underneath them. However, be cautious not to overdo washing it as prolonged exposure to water can lead to nail splits. - Don’t Bite Your Nails
One of the first nail care steps is to stop biting them. Nail biting can inflict significant harm on your nails and cuticles. Besides giving them an unsightly appearance, contact with saliva weakens the nails and makes them brittle. Additionally, it exposes the area around the nails to potential infections as even a minor cut can serve as an entry point for harmful bacteria or fungi. Moreover, putting fingers in the mouth transfers dirt and germs from the fingers to the mouth, further compounding the risks. - Focus on Maintaining Hygiene
If you’re wondering how to take care of nails, then maintaining proper nail hygiene is the first and foremost step. Regularly clean your nails and ensure that all nail care tools are washed and sanitized periodically. Use sharp clippers or manicure scissors for trimming. To protect your nails from germs, apply natural disinfectants such as tea tree oil, which effectively keeps bacteria at bay. - Don’t Scrape off Nail Polish
Another one of the most important nail care tips is to never scrape off nail polish. This can be detrimental to your nails, leaving them rough and patchy while also stripping away the top layer. Opt for an acetone-free nail polish remover instead. To prevent it from chipping away on its own, apply nail polish in two thin coats rather than a single thick layer. - Use a Moisturizer
Dryness and flakiness can weaken nails, making them prone to breakage. Enhance your nail care procedure by keeping them moisturized. When applying hand lotion, ensure to massage it into your fingernails and cuticles as well. Opt for nourishing hand creams, moisturizing oil or cuticle oil/creams to maintain the health and shine of your nails and cuticles. - Wear Gloves to Protect Nails
When it comes to nail care at home, it’s essential to beware of harmful chemicals present in cleansing detergents that can damage your nails, especially for those handling household chores independently. A smart remedy is to don gloves while working to protect your nails. After each use, wash the gloves thoroughly and leave them in the sunlight to sanitize. - Choose Nail Polish Carefully
Selecting nail polish with caution is a huge part of nail care. Opt for ‘3 Free’ polish, which doesn’t contain the toxic trio – toluene, dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and formaldehyde. Research indicates that these ingredients are endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), posing risks to human health. Also, avoid eating with painted nails, as paint chips may contaminate food and harm your body. Instead, opt for natural, chemical-free, eco-friendly and cruelty-free nail polishes. - Take a Nail-Friendly Diet
A well-balanced diet holds the key to resolving various issues, including nail problems. Brittle nails, for instance, can be linked to calcium deficiency, emphasizing the need for sufficient calcium intake from your food. Additionally, include essential nutrients like vitamin E, biotin, protein, iron, zinc, vitamin D and magnesium in your diet. You can obtain these nutrients from sources like beetroots, nuts, soy, lentils, whole grains, beans and leafy greens. Nourishing your body with these vital nutrients is a significant part of nail care at home. - Regularly Trim Your Nails
Carve out some time every few weeks to trim and shape your nails according to your preference. Opt for a straight-line trim and then round or square off the tips for a tidy appearance. Avoid letting your nails grow excessively long, as this can lead to curvature and issues like broken skin and cuticles. Instead, keep them well-groomed, leveled and evenly trimmed for a neat and polished look. - Consider Biotin Supplements
Recent studies indicate that biotin, a nutritional supplement, may potentially aid in strengthening brittle or weak fingernails. To determine if taking biotin supplements is suitable for you, it is advisable to consult with your doctor and seek their professional advice. They can assess your specific health needs and guide you on the appropriate course of action regarding biotin supplementation for nail care.
Conclusion
Proper nail care is crucial for maintaining healthy and strong nails. From maintaining cleanliness and hygiene to avoiding harmful habits like nail biting, following these nail care tips can prevent common nail problems and promote overall nail health.
