Beauty Tips

The Ultimate Nail Care Routine: Do’s and Don’ts for Healthy Nails

July 12, 2024

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Maintaining healthy, beautiful nails requires a consistent conscious nail care routine. It is not about cost but about lifestyle.

Whether you prefer natural nails or love to experiment with nail art (fixing of artificial nails), following these tips will help you keep your nails in top-notch condition, exuding confidence.

Do’s for Healthy Nails

1. Moisturize Your Cuticles

Use Cuticle Oil: Apply cuticle oil or cream daily to keep your cuticles soft and hydrated. This prevents hangnails and promotes healthy nail growth.
Hand Cream/moisturize: As you regularly moisturize your skin, focus on the nails and cuticles to prevent dryness.

2. Trim and File Regularly

Trim Nails: Trim your nails regularly to avoid breakage and maintain your desired length. Use sharp nail clippers and cut straight across to prevent ingrown nails.
File Gently: Use a fine-grit nail file to shape your nails. File in one direction to prevent splitting and peeling.
Pedicure and manicure regularly: If you cannot clean, trim and file your nails yourself then you can pay a professional to do it for you regularly.

Black Woman Doing Her Pedicure In A Beauty Salon

3. Keep Nails Clean and Dry

Proper Hygiene: Clean under your nails regularly to prevent bacteria and fungus build-up. Use a soft brush and mild soap.
Dry Nails: Keep your nails dry to avoid infections. If possible reduce the frequency of immersing your hands in water. When you do, dry them immediately afterward especially around the nails.

Drying Hands With Paper Napkins In Public Toilet — Dry hands /nails after immersing in water.

Don’t allow nails to grow to long: Avoid letting your nails grow too long, as they can become hazardous if accidentally struck, potentially breaking inward and causing damage. If you prefer longer nails, maintain a manageable length that allows you to wear closed-toe shoes comfortably and without pain.

4. Choose Non-Toxic Nail Polishes

Free from Harmful Chemicals: Opt for nail polishes that are free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). There are varieties of nail polish out there but please value your nails enough to research to get the best.
Breathable Polishes: Consider using breathable nail polishes that allow water and oxygen to pass through, promoting nail health.

5. Apply a Base Coat and Top Coat

Base Coat: Always apply a base coat before your nail polish to protect your nails from staining and to provide a smooth surface for polish application. They are called nail hardeners, usually colourless. As I will always say, go for non-toxic ones price notwithstanding.
Top Coat: Finish with a top coat to seal the colour and add shine to nails.

6. Maintain a Balanced Diet

Healthy Foods: Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, such as biotin, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids. Foods like eggs, nuts, and leafy greens support nail health. These will help the nails grow healthily without cracks, breakage and change of colour.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your nails and cuticles hydrated.

Don’ts for Healthy Nails

1. Don’t Bite Your Nails

Avoid Biting: Biting your nails can lead to infections and damage the nail bed. Keep your nails trimmed and apply a bitter-tasting nail polish if necessary to curb the habit.

Worried Woman Has Become Lost Or Afraid In The Woods While Hiking — Biting your nails is harmful

Allow your nails to breathe: Fixing artificial nails should not be all the time. Be proud to carry your natural nails most times. Too much of fixing of artificial nails can cause harm to your nails.

"woman Getting Artificial Nails Done, Selective Focus"

2. Don’t Use Harsh Nail Products

Avoid Acetone: Avoid nail polish removers containing acetone as it can dry out your nails. Opt for acetone-free removers.
Avoid harsh glues: Do not use just any glue for your nails. Yes, it might hold your nails as long as you desire but can also damage your nails for life. Use glues that are specifically made for nails such as Extreme Glaze,
Harsh Chemicals: Limit exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals by wearing gloves while cleaning.

3. Don’t Skip the Gloves

Protective Gloves: Wear gloves when doing household chores, gardening, or working with water and chemicals to protect your nails and skin.

Shot Of A Young Man Washing The Dishes While His Wife Hugs Him At Home

4. Don’t Ignore Nail Health Issues

Address Problems: Pay attention to changes in your nails, such as discoloration, thickening, or pain. These could indicate underlying health issues. Consult a healthcare professional if necessary.

5. Don’t Overuse Nail Hardeners

Limit Use: While nail hardeners can strengthen weak nails, overuse can make them brittle. Use them sparingly and follow product instructions.

6. Don’t Use Nails as Tools

Avoid Damage: Don’t use your nails to open cans, scrape off stickers, or as a substitute for tools. This can lead to breaks, chips, and damage to the nail bed.