How to Have Shiny Natural Nails

Healthy nails start with what you put in your body.

Having strong, healthy and shiny nails is easier than you might imagine and does not require getting a weekly manicure or using harsh chemicals. By living a healthy lifestyle and taking good care of your nails the way you do your skin and hair, you can have naturally shiny nails to be proud of that won't cost a fortune.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Healthy food
• Rubber gloves
• Nail clippers
• Nail file
• Lotion

Instructions

1. Eat a healthy diet filled with fruits, vegetables and whole grains, preferably foods with a high level of zinc. You should also drink at least eight glasses of water a day to keep your nails from becoming dehydrated.

2. Protect your fingernails from fungal infection by keeping them as dry as possible. Wear rubber gloves when cleaning or washing dishes and let them dry completely after washing your hands or taking a shower.

3. Keep your fingernails and toenails trimmed and filed regularly. Trim your toenails straight across to avoid getting hangnails and trim your cuticles at a 45-degree angle.

4. Keep your hands, feet, cuticles and nails moisturized just like you would the rest of your body. Use a moisturizing lotion one to two times a day. If your cuticles feel dry, you can apply some petroleum jelly to them at night before bed.

5. Avoid bad habits that cause your nails to become unhealthy such as biting your nails, pulling off hangnails and using them for things such as opening cans. Do not use nail polish remover that contains acetone; this is very unhealthy for your nails.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Nails: How to Keep Your Fingernails Healthy and Strong
• Reader's Digest: 14 Tips for Strong and Healthy Nails