Nail Care
Nails require care similar to that of hair and skin to remain beautiful and healthy. The misconception that nail polish is what makes nails shiny and attractive is misleading; in fact, nail polish can be detrimental, as it often contains a variety of harmful chemicals and can restrict oxygen to the nails. This article will explore secrets to achieving attractive and shiny nails without the use of chemical products.
Tips for Attractive Nails
Here are several suggestions for achieving beautiful nails:
Maintain Dryness and Cleanliness
Wet and damp nails are susceptible to fungal infections, so it’s crucial to keep them dry and clean. Regular handwashing, especially before meals and immediately after handling dirty items, is advisable. Thoroughly dry your hands afterward. Using a nail brush to clean under the nails can effectively remove dirt and debris.
Take Breaks from Nail Polish
It is essential to allow your nails to rest from nail polish periodically, as continuous use can lead to fatigue, dryness, discoloration, and weakness. When you do apply polish, opt for high-quality brands free from harmful substances like sulfonamides, formaldehyde, and toluene.
Moisturization
Just like skin, nails require moisturizing. Regularly applying moisturizer not only nourishes the nails but also helps prevent fungal infections and reduces the risk of dryness and cracking.
Incorporate Biotin into Your Diet
A diet rich in Vitamin B, commonly known as biotin, can benefit your nails significantly. Speaking to a healthcare professional about biotin supplements may be wise. This essential vitamin is particularly advantageous for weak and brittle nails, showing improvements over an eight-month period.
Avoid Nail Biting
Nail-biting is a common habit that arises from stress, boredom, or frustration, but it can lead to painful sores and peeling skin around the nails, increasing the risk of infections. It is crucial to break this habit.
Avoid Cutting the Skin Around the Nails
The skin surrounding the nails serves a protective function against infections. Instead of cutting it, gently push it back with an orange stick and massage it with moisturizer to maintain its strength.
Wear Gloves
Nails can be adversely affected by various substances that come into contact with the hands, including water. Therefore, wearing gloves while washing dishes is advisable to keep nails strong and healthy.
Promptly Treat Infections
Nail infections, particularly in toenails, can occur due to moisture and sweat. It is imperative to treat any signs of infection immediately, such as changes in nail color or texture.
Refrain from Using UV Nail Dryers
It is advisable to avoid UV nail dryers since they can cause nails to become thin and dry. Instead, consider using LED lights for drying.
Healthy Nutrition
Nails require proteins and vitamins to thrive, including Vitamins A, C, E, biotin, Vitamin B12, B9, calcium, and iron. Consuming a balanced diet rich in fresh vegetables, nuts, and whole grains can help provide these essential nutrients.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is vital for overall hydration, and nails are no exception. Ensure you drink sufficient water throughout the day to maintain healthy nails, hair, and skin.
Trim Your Nails Properly
While trimming nails is important, it is crucial not to overdo it, as this can harm the skin beneath. Avoid letting nails grow excessively long, as they can interfere with daily tasks.
File Nails Correctly
When using a nail file, switch to the smooth side as you near the end of the filing process. Always file in one direction to mitigate damage, starting from the outer edge toward the center for a polished and smooth finish.
Select the Right Nail Polish Remover
Acetone-based removers can dry out nails over time, leading to brittleness. Opt for gentler formulas, such as those containing isopropyl alcohol, ethyl acetate, or propylene carbonate.
Apply a Protective Layer
Utilizing a clear topcoat or base coat before applying colored nail polish can protect your nails from toxins and prevent brittleness.
Avoid Using Your Nails as Tools
Nails should not be used for scraping or pulling, as this can weaken them and lead to damage of the underlying fibers.
Ways to Achieve Attractive Nails
Here are some natural methods to achieve attractive and shiny nails without resorting to nail polish:
Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly is a simple way to keep your nails looking good. Massage it into your nails after every handwashing and before bedtime.
Homemade Nail Soak
You can create a nourishing soak for your nails using common kitchen ingredients, such as:
Olive Oil
Olive oil is excellent for treating weak and damaged nails. Here’s how to use it:
- Ingredients:
- Olive oil
- A bowl or basin
- Preparation:
- Use a bowl for fingernails and a basin for toenails.
- Heat the olive oil until warm—not hot—to avoid burns.
- Pour it into the bowl or basin and soak your nails for two minutes.
- Remove your hands and wear cotton gloves for an hour or overnight.
- Wash your hands with water and apply moisturizer to your hands and nails.
Milk
Milk is rich in beneficial nutrients for nails. Here’s how to use it:
- Ingredients:
- Warm milk
- A bowl
- Preparation:
- Fill the bowl with warm milk.
- Soak your nails for a few minutes.
- Wash your hands afterward and apply a nail moisturizer.
Rose Water and Avocado
This combination is a key to achieving attractive and shiny nails. Regular use can nourish and address issues like brittleness and dullness. Here’s how to prepare it:
- Ingredients:
- Rose water
- Avocado
- Preparation:
- Mash the avocado and mix it with rose water.
- Soak your nails in the mixture.