Everyone knows that washing hands is crucial for hygiene, but how often do we think about our nails’ condition? Below those fabulous nail paints, or even no nail paint at all, our nails hide grime, germs, and often fungi too. Nail hygiene is important not only for the sake of appearance but is a vital component of healthy living.
How to Properly Care for Your Nails
Regular Trimming and Cleaning: It is recommended that you cut your nails at least once a week using a clean set of nail clippers or scissors. Here’s the key: Do not make them too short. It is recommended that you leave a small white portion on top of the nail to avoid cases of ingrown nails. This can be effectively done by washing your hands and using a soft brush to gently scrub beneath your nails. Don’t forget about the sides of your nails, as they are the perfect place for dirt to build up.
Moisturize: The nails may split and become a point of entry for infections due to their dry and brittle nature. A cuticle oil or lotion should be applied to the nails and the skin around them daily. Seek out products with ingredients like jojoba oil, vitamin E, or shea butter for moisturizing benefits.
Wear Gloves: To prevent your nails from getting damaged, wear gloves whenever you are washing utensils, handling chemicals, or gardening. This will help to keep your nails moist and prevent them from becoming dry, weak, and vulnerable to staining.
Benefits of Clean Nails
Prevents Infections: It is shameful to have long and dirty nails since bacteria and fungus favor such regions. Practical maintenance involves washing and cutting to reduce the possibility of infections such as paronychia and onychomycosis. These infections can be rather uncomfortable and cosmetically unappealing, so maintaining clean nails can go a long way in preserving one’s health.
Improved Nail Health: Having clean nails ensures that they grow strong and do not break, split, or become brittle. Cleaning helps to get rid of the debris and dirt that might hinder the growth of the nails. Caring for your nails also enables you to recognize any nail abnormalities such as spots or lines that may be a sign of a broader health issue including vitamin deficiencies or thyroid disorders. This is because it is easier to contain a problem if it is identified early before it gets out of hand.
Enhanced Confidence: Clean nails also enhance the outward appearance and provide an individual with a positive outlook on life. Natural nails, free from dirt and disease, do not necessarily require the application of attractive nail varnish. Just maintaining them proves that you care about your appearance and overall health.
Foods for Healthy Nails
Biotin: This B vitamin contributes to the health of hair, skin, and nails. Take foods containing biotin such as eggs, nuts (especially almonds and walnuts), and avocados. It is used in the strengthening of nails and to prevent them from becoming brittle.
Protein: Nails are comprised of keratin, which is a protein. Lean meats, fish, and legumes are some of the foods that can be taken to strengthen the nails and encourage growth. Lack of protein in the diet leads to brittle nails that can crack easily.
Healthy Fats: Consumption of foods such as fatty fish containing omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, tuna), flaxseeds, and walnuts helps to maintain healthy nails and avoid dryness. Essential oils are useful in promoting healthy growth of nails since healthy fats keep the nails flexible and moisturized to avoid brittleness and cracking.
Hydration: Never underestimate the importance of drinking water! Sufficient intake of water during the day cleanses the system and maintains the skin and nails in good condition from within. It is recommended to drink at least 8 cups of water daily depending on the amount of physical activity and temperature.
Taking Nail Care a Step Further
While maintaining a clean nail routine is essential, there are additional steps you can take to elevate your nail health
Avoid Biting or Picking: This is a common nervous habit that can cause nails to become weak and prone to infections.
Use Breathable Nail Polish: While a new layer can improve the look of your nails, some polishes prevent the necessary oxygen from reaching the nail plate. Choose products marked as breathable as often as you can, and do not paint your nails for a few days at a time.
Get Regular Manicures or Pedicures (Optional): Manicures and pedicures from a qualified nail technician can be more effective in removing dirt and can also offer treatments for nails. However, ensure that you go to a salon that embraces hygiene and uses properly cleaned instruments.
Promoting Nail Health from Within
Like all the other parts of the body, nails also respond to healthy dieting. Here are some additional tips to promote healthy nails from the inside out
Consider a Biotin Supplement: If you have chronic nail issues or deficiencies, then a biotin supplement after consulting a doctor is advisable. However, a balanced diet should be able to supply sufficient biotin for the bodily needs of most individuals.
Manage Stress: Chronic stress can manifest itself in many different ways, including nail health. Engage in activities such as yoga or meditation to reduce stress and enhance your well-being so that your healthy nails can be as beautiful as your soul.
With the above approaches, you can easily maintain not only your nails’ cleanliness and glossy look but also their strength as well.
