Nails are one of those first few things that people notice about you and you’ll be surprised to know it plays an integral role in health apart from beauty. Nails are good indicators of hygiene and sometimes give out signs when there is an abnormality in the internal functioning of the body. Hence it is always better to watch out for your nail health and keep them in a good condition all the time.
Here are a few quick tips that will help you have healthier nails:

1.       Don’t cut off the cuticle since it is essential tissue that seals the area at the base of your nail protecting it from vulnerable bacteria and infections.

2.      Moisturize after using a hand sanitizer since the chemical present in sanitizers can rip the natural oils in your nails.

3.       Don’t pull out hangnails as this tends to kill the cells of the tissue around it.

4.       Avoid frequently washing your hands with chemicals.

5.       Limit professional manicures and pedicures – A recent study shows that the more you indulge in such sessions, the more your nails get brittle and dry. Also, it is important to check the hygiene levels of the tools used in parlours.

6.       Do not expose your nails to extremely hot or cold water.

7.       If nails are brittle, soak in warm water with salt for 5 minutes and then try trimming them.

8.       Whenever you’re cleaning something with harsh chemicals remember to do so with hand gloves with a cotton liner on the inside.

9.       Massage with olive oil once every week before a shower to activate the tissue surrounding the nails.

10.   Don’t use acetone based nail removers as they tend to have chemicals that might deteriorate the natural shine of the nails.

11.   Give your nails a break & don’t use nail color often. Give a day or two for it to breathe.

12.   Don’t use nails as tools to open cans or remove screws. Nails have to be handled gently.

13.   Indulge in acrylic or gel treatments sparingly. It’s even better to avoid them completely.

14.   Trim your nails regularly, once every 2 weeks at least. Long nails call for extra attention and care. If not maintained properly, they will become the storehouse of microscopic germs.

15.   Use an emery board instead of a metal nail filer and carry it with you all the time. Use it when you feel there’s a rough edge on your nail and always keep the edges smooth.

 

References:

http://www.goodhousekeeping.co m/beauty/nails/a34645/healthy- nail-care-tips/

http://www.webmd.com/beauty/na ils/more-beautiful-nails-a-doz en-tips