When it comes to nail-care, most of us think getting a nice manicure done is the only ultimatum. Well, there can be more to it. Yes ladies, we are talking about some very simple and easy tips and care to be done for strong and beautiful nails. As nice as it may sound, nail-care does not need to be expensive. With a few little details and care, maintaining healthy nails can be so much easier.
Nobody likes weak or brittle nails. So here are some super easy peasy tips for healthy nourished nails.
1. Moisturize:
The first and the most important solution to almost every problem of our selfcare/skincare routine is a proper moisturization. YES. In order for healthy nails, we need to start with well moisturized hands. With dryness and flakiness gone, your hands and nails are half way through already.
So pick up some good hand cream and use it twice daily or if not, do not forget it before bed time. Your skin nourishes itself during night so give it the required medium. Now a days there so many freshness fragrance infused hand creams available at almost any beauty store. Or you can even get them at amazon : ) Try and see what works best for you depending on your skin type.
If you are a working woman, You can go for pocket friendly size, and moisturize your hands in between your desk works.
2. Cleanliness:
Always keep your nails clean. ALWAYS. The first thing to weaken or make them look ugly are the dirt or any particles that accumulates under your nails. When following your skincare regime, make sure you wash your hands properly and dry them before moisturization.
You can use a hand scrub to gently exfoliate your nails as well. Or else do not hesitate to try DIY’s like a small tooth brush to rebuff any dirt.
3. Trimming:
Most of us want to go for long beautiful nails to flaunt a nice french manicure. But, outgrown nails have more tendency towards breakage and splits. That is the reason you should trim your nails regularly and look out for any nail hangings as they might give an ugly look. A hand clipper might come in handy here:)
4. Cuticle care:
Use a cuticle pusher to very gently and carefully push the cuticles to promote nail growth. Although it is very common, but try to avoid cutting the cuticles unless necessary as it may cause harm or infection sometimes.
Apply a cuticle oil and massage your nails gently before using the cuticle pusher. This helps in blood regulation which makes the nails shinier.
In case cuticle oil is not available, you may try applying a few drops of olive oil or any essential oil. It works the same.
5. Protection:
When you are on your house chores, doing dishes or on any cleaning routine, wear protective gloves to avoid breakage of nails. It helps to prevent hands and nails from the harsh effects of the detergents and cleansing agents.
6. Avoid gel or acrylic nails:
As attractive as you may find them, it is best to avoid gel or acrylic nails because of their after effects which can really be not good. The chemicals present in them can roughen the nails overtime.
A smart alternative for such beautiful nails can be press on/ stick on ones.
7. Nail-paint care:
When applying nail paints, always start with a base coat and then the nail colour as does not stains the nails. Add a top coat which prevents your nail colour to stay longer and avoids chipping.
Never scrape your nail colour off as it may cause dents on the nails making them weaker. It may also make the nail surface go rough and patchy.
8. Go eco-friendly:
Opt for nail colours and removers which are acetone-free, free of parabens and sulphates.
Additionally, you can also go for oil-based products which are much better than the water based.
9. Disinfect and sanitize:
Keep your skincare tools sanitized after every use. This disinfects them from any dirt or germs which can cause infections on later use.
10. Stop bitting:
Last but not the least and very crucial of all the details. DO NOT BITE YOUR NAILS OR CUTICLES. This is the most common practice by even grown ups which makes the nails prone to damage. also, biting nails can also be the reason for ingrown or painful nail growth.