Caring for your nails may seem like such a mundane, inconsequential thing. But the truth is, your nails can say a lot about yourself — from your personal hygiene down to your health. That is why nail care should never be overlooked! Here are some tips and tricks on caring for your nails the right way.
Removing Your Nail Polish
One important aspect of nail care is not letting your polish stay on your nails for more than two weeks. This is one of the reasons your nails turn brittle and discolored. Be gentle while taking off nail paint by using acetone-free polish remover since those that contain acetone tend to dehydrate your nails. One good thing about acetone-based polish removers though, is that it can take off bright and deep- colored nail polish very quick. If there really is a need to use one, just remember to apply moisturizers such as aloe vera on your nails afterwards! Also remember to wash your hands before and after removing nail polish. Too much sun exposure may also cause your nails to become yellow. If you stay outdoors a lot and often wear open-toed shoes, arm your pretty peds with a top coat or polish that contains UV protection.
Trimming and Shaping Your Nails
An important factor you must consider when caring for your nails is trimming them the right way. This will prevent nasty nail conditions such as ingrowns, or in medical terms, onychocryptosis. This condition involves digging of the toenail into the skin and often causes swelling, redness and pain. If the ingrown causes a break in the skin, bacteria may enter and cause infection. So to get healthy nails, trim them right way! Harsh, square-shaped nails may cause the edges of your nails to grow inwards, so go for the square-oval shape instead. Start by clipping your nail ends. Then file the ends of your nail while keeping the middle portion straight. If your nails are already short, just use a nail filer in trimming.
If you have hang nails, use a cuticle cutter to remove them. Never bite or pull them off! This painful process will only worsen the condition of your digits.
Care for Your Cuticles
To get healthy nails, healthy cuticles are a must too. The cuticle is the area where your skin meets your nail surface. This does not only protect your new nail as it grows from the roots but also serves as skin barrier from harmful organisms that may enter your body. It is for this very reason that your cuticle should not be removed, but only pushed back. In doing this, you need to apply cuticle creams to soften your cuticles, thus making it easier to push. Simply apply the cream on your cuticle area, then massage gently. When doing nail care, always use an orange stick or wooden pusher for your cuticles! These are gentler than those metal ones and won’t damage your nails.
Putting on Some Color
In order to maintain healthy nails even when you are wearing nail polish, you have to apply a colorless bottom coat. This will prevent stains that colored nail polish sometimes may leave. Make sure your bottom coat is already dry before coating your nails with color and remember to apply just one coat, starting from your cuticles to your tips. Finish with a top coat, preferably colorless. This will protect your nail polish from chipping off and makes the color last longer too.
