Every woman dreams of having beautiful and healthy nails, but when it comes to nail care or maintaining them, they only think of manicures. As radiant nails reflect style and overall well-being, it is necessary to take proper care of them, and with daily nail care, you might not even need professional services.

Do you know how to take care of nails to make them strong and healthy? If No, then read this article to learn 5 tips or habits that can change the look of your nails and make them stronger and more beautiful. Believe me, your nails will thank you!

1. Understanding Nail Health

The Basics of Nail Anatomy

Before we begin on the nail care journey, let’s see the fundamentals of nail anatomy:

• Nail Bed and Matrix: These form the foundation of the nails. The health of the nail bed and matrix directly impacts the overall well-being of the nails.
• Cuticle: This acts as a protective barrier. Proper cuticle care is essential for maintaining healthy and resilient nails.
• Nail Plate: This is the visible part of the nails. Understanding it can help in identifying signs of health or potential issues.

Signs of Nail Health

Recognizing signs of healthy nails is crucial:

• Smooth Texture: It represents the well-hydrated nails. Dry and brittle nails may indicate a lack of moisture or underlying health issues.
• Pink Nail Beds: It indicate robust blood circulation. Pale or blueish nail beds may signal potential circulation problems.
• Consistent Growth: It reflects the overall health of the body. Inconsistent growth patterns are linked to nutritional deficiencies or health issues.

2. Nail Care Routine

Gentle Cleaning

Maintaining a clean environment for the nails is essential:

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use acetone-free nail polish removers to protect the nails. Harsh chemicals can strip nails of their natural oils, leading to dryness and brittleness.
• Proper Trimming: Regular trimming maintains the desired shape and prevents snagging. Trim the nails straight across, then round the tips in a gentle curve.
• Moisturize Cuticles: Use cuticle oil or lotion for deep hydration and protection. Healthy cuticles contribute to the overall well-being of the nails.
• Dry And Clean Nails: Keeping dry and clean nails prevents bacteria from entering the nails. Prolonged contact with water can result in split nails.

Hydration is Key

Ensuring nails are well-hydrated is fundamental:

• Drink Water: Water helps in transporting nutrients to the nails. Proper hydration supports nail growth and strength while dehydration can lead to dry, brittle nails prone to breakage.
• Moisturize Nails: Use lotion or oil on nails after removing nail polish or dehydrated nails to maintain flexibility and prevent breakage.

Balanced Diet for Healthy Nails

Nutrition plays a vital role in promoting healthy nail growth:

• Protein Intake: A protein-rich diet is essential for forming keratin, the building block of nails. Include sources like eggs, lean meats, and legumes.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Biotin, vitamin E, and iron contribute to nail growth and strength.
• Healthy Fats: Avocados, olive oil, and nuts/seeds are sources of healthy fats that help to hydrate cuticles.

3. Protective Measures

Nail Strengthening

Taking proactive steps helps strengthen nails:

• Avoid Excessive Buffing: While buffing adds shine, excessive buffing can weaken nails. To avoid this and to maintain the strength of nails, Buff it sparingly.
• Use Nail Hardeners Sparingly: Applying nail hardeners might help strengthen nails but frequent use can make nails rigid.

Protection from Harsh Elements

Shielding nails from external factors is crucial:

• Wear Gloves: Protect nails during household chores to prevent exposure to harsh chemicals. Chemicals can cause nails to become dry and prone to breakage.
• Sunscreen for Nails: Applying sunscreen on nails can prevent them from UV rays.

4. Healthy Nail Habits

Regular Check-ups

Routine check-ups contribute to overall nail health:

• Consult a Dermatologist: Regular check-ups with a dermatologist can address concerns such as nail infections or abnormalities. Early detection can prevent further issues.
• Professional Manicures: Opt for professional manicures to ensure hygiene and proper nail care. Professionals can identify and address potential problems.

Break Bad Habits

Eliminating harmful habits to promote nail health:

• Say No to Nail Biting: Nail biting may lead to harmful effects on the fingers, damage nails, and may risk oral health.
• Avoid Picking at Cuticles: Cuticles protect the nail from bacteria and fungus, picking them can lead to infections and hinder healthy nail growth. Use cuticle oil to keep them soft.

Disinfecting Nails Tools

Disinfecting nail tool contribute to nail hygiene:

• Washing Tools: Disinfecting nail tools is as important as washing makeup tools after use. Washing metal tools with soap and water and then wiping them down with running alcohol will keep the nails infection-free.

5. Nail Products

Choose Quality Nail Products

Selecting products that promote nail health:

• Chemical-Free Nail Polishes: See the labels carefully on the nail polishes and opt for formulations that are free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) as these toxins can cause brittleness, cracking, and splitting.
• Non-Acetone Nail Polish Remover: Opt for non-acetone removers, as acetone can strip nails of natural oils. Choose gentle options that effectively remove polish without causing damage.

Conclusion

Taking care of your nails is more than just making them look good. You’re not just making your nails lovely, you’re also taking care of your overall well-being, if you understand the little things that help keep your nails healthy and make them a regular part of your routine. Being consistent with these practices is crucial. Remember, a healthy nail will show that your entire body is working well as you embark on this journey.