Updated 31/12/2022
Well-kept nails are amongst the many things that make one beautiful. Keeping yourself beautiful should go beyond your hair and face. It should also be seen in how great your nails look at every point in time.
Taking care of your nails, however, is not an easy task. There are things you must do and others you should never do. And there is a lot of work involved in either. But the benefits of having great nails make the whole hassle worth it.
Apart from the extra dose of superficial beauty your great nails add to you; people take one look at them and immediately wish theirs were like yours, your nails, when you take really good care of them, also confer numerous health benefits on you.
It makes it a matter of necessity then that you should take good care of your nails, always. Let us now first look at the things you should always do to keep those nails in great shape.
Trim your nails
Your hair isn’t the only part of your body that requires regular trimming. Leaving your nails to grow too long too often will make them curved causing issues like ruptured cuticles.
Hence your nails need to be trimmed neatly with a nail cutter. Do this once every few weeks and you will most certainly love how you feel about those nails every time you look at them.
Start out by cutting each nail in a straight line and then trim the tips to look either square or round. Your nails, when trimmed, don’t only end up looking beautiful, but they also make it impossible for germs and bacteria to take residence underneath them.
Avoid harsh nail polishes
Choose a nail polish that does not contain harsh chemicals, such as formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). These chemicals can be damaging to your nails and skin. Instead, opt for a natural nail polish that is free of these chemicals.
Look for nail polishes that are free of synthetic fragrances, parabens, and formaldehyde resin. Also, be sure to look for nail polishes that are vegan, cruelty-free, and non-toxic.
Use gentle nail polish remover
When using nail polish remover, it is important to use a gentle formula. Avoid using harsh acetone-based removers, as they can be too harsh and damaging to the nails. Instead, opt for an acetone-free remover that contains moisturizing ingredients such as glycerin or vitamin E.
These removers are gentler on the nails and will help to prevent them from becoming overly dry.
Keep your nail clean and dry
It is important to keep your nails clean and dry to prevent the spread of bacteria and infection. Wash your hands regularly, and make sure to keep your nails trimmed and filed. Also, avoid biting or picking at your nails, as this can also lead to infection.
Keep your nails moisturised
- Keep your nails and cuticles moisturised with a nourishing oil or balm. Olive oil, vitamin E oil, and coconut oil are all great options.
- Wear gloves when cleaning, washing dishes, and gardening.
- Avoid using harsh soaps and detergents, as these can dry out your nails and cuticles.
- Use a nail strengthener to help protect your nails from breakage. 5. Always use a base coat and top coat when applying nail polish.
- Take biotin supplements to help strengthen your nails.
- Always use a cuticle cream or oil to keep them hydrated.
- Avoid biting your nails and picking at your cuticles.
- Make sure to keep your hands and nails clean and dry.
- Use a moisturiser with SPF to protect your nails from the sun.
Now, let us look at the things you should never do to your nails!
Never bite or chew your nails!
Nail biting can be a difficult habit to break, but it’s worth it. Not only can it damage your nails and cuticles, but it can also expose you to bacteria and germs. Instead, try to find a healthy alternative like painting your nails, using a fidget toy, or squeezing a stress ball.
To force your teeth to leave your nails alone, try applying nail polishes that smell bad or a very clear thick coat of gel. These two combined will make your nails both unpleasant and hard to chew on.
Add protein and omega-3 fatty acids to your diet for strong nails
Protein and omega-3 fatty acids are essential for maintaining strong nails. Eating foods rich in these essential nutrients can help keep nails strong and healthy.
Foods high in protein include eggs, fish, poultry, nuts, legumes, and dairy products. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, mackerel, and sardines, as well as walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds. Adding these foods to your diet can help keep your nails healthy and strong.
Acrylics can damage your nails
Acrylic nails can damage your natural nails if they are applied improperly or if they are not removed correctly.
The removal process involves soaking the nails in acetone to break down the acrylic, which can cause dehydration and weakening of the nail bed. Wearing acrylics for too long can also cause your nails to become brittle and weak.
It is best to push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher, or use a cuticle oil to keep them moisturized and healthy.
Consult a doctor if your nails regularly cause you pain
Yes, if your nails are causing you pain, it is important to consult a doctor. Pain in the nails can be caused by a variety of conditions, including fungal infections, psoriasis, and eczema. It is important to determine the cause of the pain so that the proper treatment can be administered.