Nail Care Do's and Don'ts: How to Get Healthy Nails?

You might not look at them closely, but if you do – your fingernails can tell you a lot about your general health. If you look down at your nails and see ridges, spots, or splitting – your nails are not as healthy as they should be. To get strong nails, there are certain nails care do's and don’ts that you should follow. For the best nail care, you should get to know your nails better, and find out what you can do for them.

What are nails made of?

Have you ever wondered what are your nails made of? The answer has a great deal to do with proper nail care, so you should know it. Your nails are made of Keratin. It is a protein that makes up nail tissue and other tissues in the body. If the name sounds familiar, it is probably because you heard it n regard to hair care.

Hair is also made up of Keratin, and using products that contain Keratin helps keep healthy, shiny hair.

Keratin is also very important in nail care; it helps keep nails strong and healthy, so you need to make sure you do not damage the Kertain found in your nails.

How nails grow

Nails begin to grow under the skin; new cells grow underneath the skin, and they "push" out old cells through the skin. So, in a manner of speaking, your visible nails are virtually dead. That is why you do not feel pain when you cut and trim your nails.

However, the fact that nails are made of non-vital cells does not mean that you should neglect them. Nails are attached to skin and cuticles that keep them vital. When your nails weaken or are unhealthy, it could cause damage, such as infection, nail fungus, and more.

Your nails get a steady supply of blood through capillaries, and that is why they have that pink hue. If your nail beds are pale, it could indicate a health issue. To find out if you have underlying health problems, you should know what your nails say about your health.

Nail Care Do's and Don'ts

So, now that you know your nails a little better, it's time to find out some nail care do's and don’ts that you should practice daily:

Nail care do's

Keep nail hygiene

You should trim your nails regularly to keep them clean and straight. Use quality scissors or a nail trimmer to shorten nails. Then, round the tips with a quality nail filer. To prevent splitting – file your nail in one direction – from left to right or right to left. Do not go back and forth – it weakens the nails.

Keep your nails dry

When nails are damp, this encourages the formation of bacteria and other infections. You should keep your fingernails and toenails dry to prevent infection. Avoid washing your hands too often, and if you wash a lot of dishes, or have to come in contact with water often – use gloves.

Apply hand lotion

A good moisturizer can do wonders with both your fingernails and toenails. You should moisturize your hands and feet regularly – especially if you wash your hands often. When you apply the cream, rub it on your nails thoroughly. Avoid using lotions that contain chemicals, and prefer a more natural moisturizer.

Use a quality cuticle conditioner

A cuticle conditioner can revive your nails, and make them stronger and healthier than ever. As with the lotion, use a cuticle conditioner that contains only or mostly natural ingredients to prevent nail damage.

Nail care don’ts

Apply harsh nail care products

Applying nail polish from time to time is perfectly fine. However, you should know that most nail polish products and nail polish removers contain harsh chemicals that can damage your nails – especially when used often. So, whether it's a regular manicure or applying false nails – do not use nail products too often. If you can't give up your nail care routine, switch it up with more natural products. You can use water-based nail polish and nail polish remover to enjoy a healthier manicure.

Bite your nails

If you have a habit of biting your nails or picking at your cuticles – try to stop. You might be damaging your nails and skin. Also, you are exposing your nails and skin to infection, and even causing infection with the bacteria in your mouth.

Ignore changes in your nails

As we said, changes in the appearance and physiology of your nails could indicate underlying health problems. If you notice your nails have become weak, changed their color, formed ridges, or underwent other changes – you should not ignore them, and go see a doctor.

Nail care routine

Nail care do's and don’ts can help keep your nails healthy and strong. It takes no time at all, so you can easily transform your nails and make them stronger.