We all want to have gorgeous nails that make us feel confident and put-together. But achieving and maintaining beautiful nails requires more than just a fresh coat of polish. Proper nail care is essential for healthy, strong nails that look their best. To help you achieve your nail goals, we’ve compiled a list of dos and don’ts from nail care experts to guide you on the journey to gorgeous nails.
Do: Keep Your Nails Hydrated
One of the most important things you can do for your nails is to keep them hydrated. Just like the rest of your body, your nails need moisture to stay strong and healthy. Dry, brittle nails are more prone to breakage and damage, so it’s essential to keep them hydrated. To keep your nails moisturized, apply a nourishing nail oil or cream regularly, especially before bed. You can also try soaking your nails in warm water with a few drops of olive or coconut oil for a DIY nail treatment.
Don’t: Use Harsh Chemicals
When it comes to nail care, it’s important to steer clear of harsh chemicals that can damage your nails. This includes acetone-based nail polish removers, which can strip your nails of their natural oils and weaken them over time. Choose a gentle, acetone-free nail polish remover instead to protect your nails while still effectively removing polish. Additionally, try to avoid nail products that contain harsh chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP, as these can be harmful to your nails and overall health.
Do: Keep Your Nails Trimmed and Filed
Regular trimming and filing are essential for maintaining healthy nails. Keeping your nails trimmed to a moderate length will prevent them from breaking or snagging on things, which can lead to damage. Use a gentle nail clipper to trim your nails straight across, and then use a nail file to shape them into your desired length and shape. Avoid using metal tools to trim or shape your nails, as these can cause unnecessary damage and weaken your nails over time.
Don’t: Bite Your Nails
Nail biting is a common habit that can wreak havoc on your nails. Not only does nail biting make your nails look unsightly, but it can also lead to infections and other complications. If you’re a nail biter, try to break the habit by keeping your nails neatly trimmed and filing them regularly to prevent any rough edges that may tempt you to bite. You can also try using a bitter-tasting nail polish or applying a nail strengthening treatment to discourage biting.
Do: Use a Base Coat
Applying a base coat before painting your nails is an essential step for protecting your nails and ensuring your polish lasts longer. A base coat helps to create a smooth surface for your polish to adhere to, and it can also prevent staining and yellowing of your nails. Choose a base coat that is formulated to strengthen and protect your nails, and apply it before painting your nails with your desired color.
Don’t: Pick at Your Cuticles
It can be tempting to pick at your cuticles when they look dry or overgrown, but this can actually do more harm than good. Picking at your cuticles can lead to infection and damage to the nail bed, so it’s best to avoid this habit. Instead of picking at your cuticles, gently push them back with a cuticle pusher or the edge of a nail file. You can also apply a cuticle oil or cream to keep your cuticles soft and hydrated.
Do: Practice Good Nail Health
In addition to following these dos and don’ts, it’s essential to practice good overall nail health to keep your nails looking their best. This includes eating a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that are essential for nail health, such as biotin, zinc, and iron. Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated will also help to keep your nails strong and healthy. Lastly, make sure to protect your nails from damage by wearing gloves while doing household chores or activities that may put your nails at risk.
Don’t: Neglect Regular Maintenance
Finally, it’s important not to neglect regular maintenance of your nails. Just like any other part of your body, your nails require regular care and attention to stay healthy and beautiful. Make time for a weekly nail care routine that includes trimming, filing, and moisturizing your nails, as well as removing old nail polish and applying a fresh coat. If you notice any changes in your nails, such as discoloration, brittleness, or pain, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a nail care professional or dermatologist.
In conclusion, achieving and maintaining gorgeous nails is possible with proper care and attention. By following these dos and don’ts of nail care and practicing good overall nail health, you can have strong, healthy nails that look their best. Remember to keep your nails hydrated, avoid harsh chemicals, keep them trimmed and filed, use a base coat, and practice good nail health habits. With a little effort and commitment, you can achieve the gorgeous nails you’ve always dreamed of.
