Nails reflect our overall health, which is why proper nail care is so important. Here are dermatologists’ tips for keeping your nails healthy:
1. Use nail hardeners sparingly or not at all.
"The take-home message here is that a lot of them do more damage than good," says Stern. She reminds us that these products are not studied clinically, so most claims are not backed up by science. Unless nails are exceptionally weak and fragile, she says, most people don't benefit from a nail hardener.
2. Stop biting and picking your nails.
"Biting nails or being too aggressive when cleaning out under the nail can create stress fractures on the corners of the edges and eventually cause breaks," says Kimmie Kyees. "Also, rubbing the top of your nails -- it's a nervous habit some women have and it may cause severe ridges in the top of the nail plate."
3. Take care of your cuticles
Since your nails are driven by the power of your cuticles, once they’re infected or damaged, so are your nails. When taking care of your cuticles, you shouldn’t bite or cut them, as that breaks down their material and leaves them vulnerable to bacteria. However, cuticle clippers can be used for hangnails.
4. Keep your nail tools to yourself.
There’s no “sharing is caring” with your nail file, clipper, and etc. because it’s gross. Well, gross in that your tools harbor lots of germs . so just imagine what they must be like when you and all of your friends use them. Make sure to replace these tools when you can, and try sterilizing them after a couple of uses.
5. It needs moisture, too.
The nail bed is comprised of hardened keratin the same stuff that makes up your hair and it needs moisture, too. Treat your hands to a rich, emollient lotion often, especially after getting hands wet, working with cleaning products, or removing polish.Article Sources: Link | Link | Link |
