Since nails are constantly growing, some people tend to neglect their nails. They think that it would eventually grow back so they do not mind if some damage is done to their nails. Unfortunately, most nail damages are very painful, especially if the nails become cracked. Infection of the nails is also a big problem that should be avoided.
There are many do’s and don’t in nail care and you might not know a lot of them. The most basic things are very easy such as keeping the nails trim, and cleaning under our nails so that microbes will not have a chance to proliferate.
One thing that a lot of people do but should not be done is the using of the nails as tools. Some use them for opening lids and letters, while others use them as a screwdriver. These actions will expose nails to mechanical damage and one wrong move may cause them to break. It is best to use the correct tools for these jobs and avoid using your nails at all costs.
Nails cannot be damaged through physical means alone. They can also be damaged when exposed to harsh chemicals or drying agents. It is best to avoid contact with these substances by using gloves. If it is really unavoidable, make sure to moisturize your nails afterward so that your nails are hydrated and will not break easily.
One area of your nails that you should be really careful is the cuticle area. This is because it is near the nail bed where your nail grows. This is the area that you should protect and clean frequently so that chances of infection and deformities forming in your nails are reduced.
Another practice that a lot of people do is the pulling of hangnails. This is a dangerous habit as the wrong pull might cause some serious damage to your nails. This will of course be very painful and may cause your entire nail to crack. Even though you are really irritated at seeing of feeling a hangnail, it is best to find a clipper and use it to cut it off rather than doing it yourself.
The use of nail polish is encouraged to help protect your nails from unnecessary scratches. But be careful as you should also let your nails rest from time to time so that they are not in constant contact with the chemicals used in the polish. Also, avoid polish that makes use of formaldehyde as one of their ingredients.
These are just some of the things that you should remember when it comes to taking care of your nails. There are still other practices that should be avoided to maintain strong and healthy nails. It is best to consult a dermatologist if you are not sure if your nail care practices are safe and beneficial for your nails.