While having great looking nails is something that most women desire, it is extremely important to make lifestyle changes and follow a nail care regimen to get healthy nails. Here are some tips for keeping the nails in a good condition.
Though beauty treatments such as manicure and pedicure can make the nails look well-groomed and beautiful, one must understand that nails can be an indicator of one's health. You shouldn't need to put a nail polish to make them look pretty.
They should look good in their natural form. Healthy nails are pink in color, and should have a good texture. When nails become brittle, or start looking yellow, it must be taken as a warning sign. Here are some tips that you can follow to get healthy and beautiful nails.
Tips on Caring for Nails
Here are some simple self-care measures that you should include to your nail care regimen.
Keep them Hydrated
However tempted you might be to apply nail polish, try to keep your nails bare for the maximum duration. Remember that keeping your nails constantly covered with nail polish can strip the nails off their natural shine and moisture, thereby making them look dull and dry.
Whenever you need to apply a nail polish, make sure that you apply one that is acetone-free. You can also apply petroleum jelly to keep your nails hydrated and shiny.
You can also apply natural oils such as castor oil or almond oil on your nails before going to bed.
Most importantly, drink plenty of water.
Keep them Clean
You should keep your nails dry and clean at all times. Frequent wetting of the hands can cause the nails to get brittle. If you like growing your nails, you should even be more careful, as dirt can get collected. This can increase the risk of infections.
For hygienic toenails, essentially wear clean, cotton socks. People who sweat profusely must take care as they are at a greater risk of suffering from fungal infections.
Protect your Nails
Nails are delicate, and prone to injuries. So, don't use them to perform tasks that could cause them to break.
When it comes to toenails, make sure that you wear shoes with a wide toe box.
Wearing tight shoes with a narrow toe box can lead to nail problems. If you mostly wear closed shoes, it would be best to cut them short.
Wear rubber gloves while you perform household tasks such as cleaning the utensils. Stop yourself, if you have the habit of biting nails.
Nutrition for Nails
Certain nutrients are essential for keeping the nails in a good condition. For instance, food items that contain proteins, zinc, and calcium are essential for promoting nail growth.
Make sure that you include food items that are rich in vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin D, and vitamin E. Include apples, cucumbers, eggs, garlic, grapes, nuts, onions, soy, salmon, and whole grains in your diet.
Follow Nail Care Routine
Here are some easy tips that you can follow to keep your nails healthy.
After taking a bath, dry your nails completely. Make sure that you dry the inner corners thoroughly.
Apply a nourishing cuticle cream twice a week and clean it after 20 minutes.
Buff your nails once a week to improve the blood circulation.
Soak your nails in a solution of diluted vinegar once a week.
Give yourself a manicure and pedicure at home to thoroughly clean the nails once a week.
Following the aforementioned tips will definitely prove beneficial. Remember to visit a doctor as soon as you see irregular growth, discoloration, pus formation, or experience pain in the nail bed.
If you do apply a nail polish, make sure that use brands that are known for their good quality. Do not keep your nails covered with nail polish all the time. Believe me, healthy nails can certainly look great, if well-groomed.