Whether you’re someone who loves a fresh manicure or just wants to keep your nails healthy and strong, taking care of your nails is an important part of self-care. Our nails can often be an indicator of our overall health, so it’s crucial to give them the attention they deserve. But with so much conflicting information out there, it can be hard to know the dos and don’ts of nail care. That’s why we’re here to break it down for you.
Do: Keep Your Nails Hydrated
Just like our skin, our nails need hydration to stay healthy and strong. Make sure to regularly moisturize your nails and cuticles with a nourishing oil or cream. This will help prevent dry, brittle nails and keep them looking their best. You can also increase your water intake to hydrate your nails from the inside out.
Don’t: Use Harsh Chemicals
Avoid using harsh chemicals on your nails, such as acetone-based nail polish removers and strong cleaning agents. These can strip your nails of their natural oils and weaken them over time. Opt for gentler, natural nail polish removers and cleaning products to keep your nails in top shape.
Do: Use a Base Coat
Applying a base coat before you paint your nails not only helps your nail polish last longer, but it also provides a protective barrier between your nails and the colored pigment. This can help prevent staining and damage to your nails, keeping them healthy and strong.
Don’t: Bite Your Nails
We know it can be a hard habit to break, but biting your nails can cause serious damage. Not only can it lead to infection and nail deformities, but it can also weaken your nails and make them more prone to breakage. Try to find alternative ways to manage stress or nervous energy, such as chewing gum or fidget toys.
Do: Trim and File Your Nails Properly
Regularly trimming and filing your nails is essential for keeping them healthy and strong. Use a sharp nail clipper to trim your nails straight across, then gently file the edges to smooth them out. Avoid using metal files, as they can cause splintering and damage to your nails. Instead, opt for a fine-grit nail file to gently shape and smooth your nails.
Don’t: Pick or Peel Your Polish
We’ve all been there – a corner of our nail polish starts to chip, and before we know it, we’re peeling off the entire manicure. But picking or peeling your polish can cause serious damage to your nails, leaving them weak and brittle. If your polish starts to chip, remove it properly with a gentle nail polish remover and reapply a fresh coat.
Do: Eat a Balanced Diet
Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for strong, healthy nails. Make sure to include plenty of protein, biotin, and vitamins A, C, and E in your diet to promote nail growth and strength. Foods like nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and lean proteins are great options for building strong nails from the inside out.
Don’t: Skip a Nail Strengthening Treatment
If your nails are feeling weak and brittle, consider incorporating a nail strengthening treatment into your routine. There are plenty of over-the-counter options available, such as nail strengtheners and growth serums, that can help fortify your nails and promote healthy growth. Look for products with ingredients like keratin, vitamins, and minerals to nourish and strengthen your nails.
Do: Give Your Nails a Break
Just like our skin and hair, our nails need a break from constant grooming and polish. Give your nails a breather every once in a while by going au naturel and letting them breathe. This can help prevent damage and allow your nails to regain their natural strength and health.
Don’t: Neglect Your Cuticles
Our cuticles play an important role in nail health, acting as a protective barrier against infection and damage. Make sure to regularly moisturize and gently push back your cuticles to keep them healthy and strong. Avoid cutting or trimming your cuticles, as this can lead to infection and damage to the nail bed.
By following these dos and don’ts of nail care, you can keep your nails healthy, strong, and beautiful. Remember, self-care is more than just pampering – it’s about taking care of your body and prioritizing your health. So show your nails some love and watch them flourish!
