Nail care is crucial for maintaining strong, healthy nails in addition to adorning your hands. Lack of basic nail care can result in weak, brittle nails as well as more serious problems including infections. Fortunately, you may attain nails that are not only aesthetically beautiful but also in top condition by adhering to a few straightforward dos and avoiding a few common don'ts. In order to help you achieve and maintain healthy, strong nails, we will look at the dos and don'ts of nail care in this blog post.
But, before that let’s look at the causes of splitting or peeling nails which is also known as onychoschizia can have several causes. Here are some common factors that may contribute to this condition:
Causes of Splitting or Peeling Nails
Splitting or peeling nails can be both frustrating and painful. Understanding the causes of this issue is essential in finding effective remedies and preventing further damage to your nails.
- Excessive exposure to water: Spending prolonged periods in water can weaken the nails, making them prone to splitting or peeling.
- Harsh chemicals: Frequent contact with harsh chemicals and cleaning agents can strip the natural oils from your nails, causing them to become brittle.
- Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of essential vitamins and minerals, such as biotin, calcium, and iron, can contribute to weak and easily damaged nails.
- Trauma or injury: Accidents or repeated trauma to the nail bed can lead to splitting or peeling.
Remedies for Preventing Splitting or Peeling:
1. Keep your nails moisturized: Apply a nourishing nail oil or cream regularly to keep your nails hydrated.
2. Wear gloves: When cleaning or working with chemicals, protect your nails by wearing gloves.
3. Maintain a balanced diet: Consume foods rich in vitamins and minerals that promote healthy nail growth, such as leafy greens, eggs, nuts, and fish.
4. Avoid excessive filing: Overfilling your nails can weaken them, so file them gently and in one direction only.
5. Use a protective base coat: Apply a strengthening base coat before applying nail polish to provide an extra layer of protection.
By following these remedies and avoiding the causes of splitting or peeling nails, you can achieve healthier and stronger nails that are less prone to damage.
Remember, taking care of your nails is not just about aesthetics but also about maintaining their health and strength for overall well-being.
Dos of Nail Care
Dos for Nail CareTaking care of your nails is essential not only for their appearance but also for their overall health. By following a few simple dos, you can achieve healthy and strong nails that you'll be proud to show off. Here are some tips to help you on your journey to nail perfection:
1. Keep your nails clean and dry: Maintaining healthy nails requires good cleanliness. Be sure to regularly wash your hands with warm water and mild soap. Dry your nails completely after washing them to avoid moisture buildup, which can result in fungus infections. Use a soft brush to carefully clean the regions around and beneath the nails, paying special attention to those areas.
2. Trim nails regularly: Regular nail trimming is essential for preventing nails from becoming overly long, which can make them more prone to breakage. Use sharp, clean nail clippers and trim your nails straight across to avoid ingrown nails. Additionally, gently file the edges to smooth out any roughness.
3. Use a moisturizer: Nails, just like the skin, need hydration. Apply a moisturizing lotion or oil to your nails and cuticles daily to prevent them from becoming dry and brittle. Opt for products specifically formulated for nails, such as those containing ingredients like vitamin E, jojoba oil, or almond oil.
4. Protect your nails: When engaging in activities that may expose your nails to harsh chemicals or excessive moisture, protect them by wearing gloves. Cleaning agents, detergents, and prolonged exposure to water can weaken and damage your nails. By wearing gloves, you can minimize the risk of nails becoming brittle and weak.
5. Maintain a balanced diet: Eating a nutritious diet is essential for overall health, including nail health. Include foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins, such as leafy greens, fruits, lean meats, and nuts, to provide your nails with the necessary nutrients they need to stay strong and healthy.
Don'ts of Nail Care
1. Avoid biting your nails: Biting your nails is a common habit that can lead to various nail problems. It can weaken the nail bed, cause nail deformities, and introduce harmful bacteria into the nail area. Breaking this habit is crucial for achieving and maintaining healthy nails.
2. Don't use nails as tools: Using your nails as tools, whether it's to open cans, scrape off stickers, or pry things open, can cause significant damage. Nails are not designed for such tasks and can easily break, chip, or tear. Always use appropriate tools instead.
3. Say no to harsh nail products: Avoid using nail products that contain harsh chemicals, such as formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). These chemicals can cause nails to become weak, dry, and prone to breakage. Opt for nail polishes, removers, and treatments that are free of harmful chemicals.
4. Don't pick at your cuticles: Picking at your cuticles can lead to infections and damage the delicate skin surrounding the nails. Instead of picking, gently push back your cuticles using a cuticle pusher or an orange stick after a shower when they are softer.
5. Avoid excessive nail filing: While filing your nails helps maintain their shape, excessive filing can weaken them. File your nails in one direction using a gentle motion, avoiding back-and-forth sawing. This approach minimizes the risk of nail splitting and weakening.
Conclusion
Achieving and maintaining healthy and strong nails requires consistent care and attention. By following the dos and avoiding don'ts of nail care, you can promote nail health and prevent common problems like brittleness, breakage, and infections. Remember to keep your nails clean, moisturized, and protected, while avoiding harmful habits like biting or using them as tools. By incorporating these simple guidelines into your nail care routine and adopting a balanced diet, you'll be well on your way to enjoying beautiful, healthy, and strong nails.
