Fingernails: Do’s and don’ts for healthy nails
Are you taking good care of your nails? Here’s what you need to know to keep your fingernails in tiptop shape.
Take a close look at your fingernails. Are they strong and healthy looking? Or do you see ridges, dents, or areas of unusual color or shape? Many less than desirable nail conditions can be avoided through proper fingernail care. Others might indicate an underlying condition that needs attention.
To prevent nail damage, don’t:Bite your fingernails or pick at your cuticles. These habits can damage the nail bed. Even a minor cut alongside your fingernail can allow bacteria or fungi to enter and cause an infection.
Pull off hangnails. You might rip live tissue along with the hangnail. Instead, carefully clip off hangnails.
Use harsh nail care products. Limit your use of nail polish remover. When using nail polish remover, opt for an acetone-free formula.
Ignore problems. If you have a nail problem that doesn’t seem to go away on its own or is associated with other signs and symptoms, consult your doctor or dermatologist for an evaluation.
A note about manicures and pedicures
If you rely on manicures or pedicures for healthy-looking nails, keep a few things in mind. Stick to salons that display a current state license, and work only with technicians also licensed by the state board. Don’t have your cuticles removed — they act to seal the skin to the nail plate, so removal can lead to nail infection. Also, make sure your nail technician properly sterilizes all tools used during your procedure to prevent the spread of infection.
You might also ask how the foot baths are cleaned. Ideally, a bleach solution is used between clients and the filters are cleaned regularly.
It’s easy to neglect your nails — but taking some basic steps can keep your fingernails healthy and strong.”
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Strong and Pretty: Dos and Don’ts for Healthy Fingernails
Ever wonder why some people seem to have perpetually beautiful nails? The secret might be simpler than you think! Just like the rest of your body, your fingernails thrive with a little care and attention.Let’s take a closer look at your nails. Are they smooth and strong, or do they have ridges, dents, or unusual coloring? Many common nail problems can be avoided with proper care.expand_more In some cases, changes in your nails might even indicate a health issue that needs a doctor’s attention.
No More Nail Biting!
Here are some key things to avoid to keep your nails healthy:
Biting your nails or picking at your cuticles: This might seem like a harmless habit, but it can damage the nail bed, the area under your nail where new nail cells grow.expand_more Even a small cut near your nail can allow germs in and cause an infection.expand_more
Pulling off hangnails: This can tear the skin around your nail and lead to pain or infection.expand_more Instead, try gently clipping off the hangnail with sharp nail clippers.expand_more
Using harsh nail products: Limit your use of nail polish remover, especially formulas with acetone, which can dry out your nails.expand_more
Ignoring nail problems: If you have a nail issue that doesn’t improve on its own or comes with other symptoms, see a doctor or dermatologist to get it checked out.
Salon SecretsLove getting manicures or pedicures for beautiful nails? Here are some tips for a safe and healthy salon experience:
Choose a licensed salon: Look for a salon that displays a current state license and uses technicians with proper state board licenses.
Protect your cuticles: Cuticles help seal the skin around your nail and prevent infection.expand_more Don’t get them removed during a manicure.
Ask about tool sterilization: Make sure the salon properly sterilizes all tools used during your manicure or pedicure to prevent the spread of germs.exclamation
Foot bath hygiene: Inquire about how the foot baths are cleaned. Ideally, they should be disinfected with a bleach solution between clients, and the filters should be cleaned regularly.exclamation
Taking Care is EasyTaking care of your nails doesn’t have to be complicated! By simply avoiding bad habits and following these simple tips, you can keep your fingernails healthy, strong, and looking their best.
