There’s something about healthy looking fingernails that are nicely cleaned and filed to finish off a well groomed and polished appearance. There are some useful tips and information to keep your fingernails healthy and attractive.
One of the most common complaints about our fingernails is that they are prone to splitting and breaking easily. The most common cause of split fingernails is constant and repetitive contact with water from dishwashing, housework or tub baths.
Another contributing factor to split fingernails is frequent use of nail polish remover. Generally speaking, split fingernails are rarely caused by a vitamin or mineral deficiency. Certain prevention measures can be taken to minimize the occurence of split fingernails. When washing dishes or doing any other housework where your hands will be immersed in water, use a pair of rubber gloves with a cotton lining.
Don’t take long tub baths or use a hot tub or whirlpool for extended periods of time. Limit the use of nail polish remover to two times a month or less. If your nail polish chips, just retouch it in between nail polish removals. When you must use nail polish remover, use the type that does not contain acetone.
After you wash your hands, apply a moisturizing lotion not only to your hands but to your fingernails too. Do not get your fingernails manicured too often. Trim your fingernails and file them to reduce rough edges that can catch on fabrics and increase the chance of splitting. If you round the tips to a gentle curve, this will minimize splitting. If you have a fingernail split, you can repair it with either a nail glue or clear nail polish.
Acrylic nails used in manicures, most of the time, do not harm the natural nails. However, if there is a gap between your natural nail and the acrylic nail from it being bumped or jarred, there could be a hazard. This can create a problem as it sets up a warm, moist environment between the natural nail and the acrylic nail. In this environment, either bacteria or fungi can grow readily.
Another problem that can occur with acrylic nails is from them being left in place for too long or from a salon that uses unsanitary tools for the application. Either of these factors can cause an infection which will require the attention of a dermatologist. To prevent any potential problems with acrylic nails, avoid wearing them for too long, remove or replace them if they loosen and go only to a reputable salon that is licensed.
