The texture, shape and length of the nails talk a lot about the health, basic hygiene and personal sense of style of a person. Nail care is an important part of personal grooming and this you simply cannot ignore its importance. Gorgeous and well maintained nails enhance confidence level. But still many of us often tend to neglect the importance of nail care.

 

Taking care of your nails is not a very difficult task. You can keep your nails in top shape is by maintaining a simple and easy to follow nail care routine.

 

To keep the nails of your fingers and toes look at their best, here are some simple tips:

 

  1.  You must keep your nails clean. 

Take time to wash in and around your nails. Soak your fingers in warm soapy water and use a soft brush to clean them. This will prevent infections due to germs and dirt accumulations. Dead skin around the nails must be removed using a pumice stone. Regular manicure of your hands will help in getting rid of the dead skin accumulation around the nails.

 

 

  2.   Always keep your finger well moisturized to avoid dryness. 

When your fingernails are wet it allows the formation of bacteria and fungi under your fingernails. Whenever you you’re your hands use a good quality cotton towel to pat dry your hands. When using a hand lotion or moisturizer, you must apply it both on the nails as well as the cuticles. Olive oil is a great moisturizer for healthy nails and before going to bed you can use this oil to keep your nails well moisturized.

 

 

  3.  Stop exposing your hands and fingers to harsh chemicals.

Must wear gloves when washing dishes, washing clothes, cleaning the house, washing your car, using harsh chemicals while working on your garden and so on.

 

 

  4.  Regularly trim and file your nails with the help of sharp clippers.

Never use any blunt tool to trim your nails as it can cause damage. You must trim your nails depending upon the growth rate of your nails. The best way to cut your nails is to first trim the nails straight across and finish it up by giving a gentle round shape to the tips. Then use a nail filer to smoothen your nails. Wash your fingers and then wait for fifteen minutes before trimming and filing your nails.

 

 

  5.  Take out time and massage your hands properly.

A hand massage stimulates blood circulation and helps in the growth of nails making them healthy and strong. You must go for a hand massage with olive oil once in a week.

 

 

  6.  Offer protection by applying a coat of nail hardener on your nails.

This way weak nails will become stronger and will not break easily when exposed to water. It is essential to allow your nails to breathe freely. This is why you must maintain a gap between nail polishes. When using nail paint you must first use a base coat on your nails and then proceed with the nail paint. This will help in maintaining the original color of your nails.

 

 

  7.  Avoid exposing your nails in cold weather.

Cold weather will dehydrate your nails and cuticles. It will make your nails prone to breaking, chapping and discoloration.

 

 

  8.  Eating a healthy and well balanced diet.

 It is essential for the overall development and growth of nails. For healthy nails calcium is very essential. It will help in avoiding discoloration and chipping of nails. Your body also needs adequate supply of vitamin A, phosphorous, zinc, folic acid, silica and vitamin C for maintaining the health of your nails.