How to Grow Healthy, Long Nails
People notice if your nails are long and kept looking nice. They also notice, however, if your nails are short or discolored. If you want long pretty nails, but don't care for or don’t want to spend money on acrylic nails, you can grow them yourself by taking proper care of them. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Slather lotion on your nails and cuticles several times a day. Be sure to apply moisturizer when you get out of the shower, when you finish doing the dishes, and after removing fingernail polish. Put it on before you go to bed as well.
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Avoid using your nails as tools. Sometimes it's tempting to use your nail to do things such as open soda cans. Instead, find something strong to slide under it. Be careful when putting your hands into your purse, lifting heavy objects or typing. Jamming the ends of your nails causes them to split and peel.
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Use nail polish for special occasions. The chemicals in polish and polish remover can wreak havoc on your nails. Polish turns your nails an ugly yellow, which must be covered up or grown out. Starting with a clear polish base can help. Only use nail polish remover once a week, and use only use non-acetone remover – acetone dries the nails
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Keep your nails clean and dry. This helps avoid germs that can get under your cuticles.
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Don't bite your nails or pick at your cuticles. Chewed nails can develop infections.
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File your nails in one direction, toward the center.
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Tips & Warnings
Vertical ridges, which may become more pronounced as you age, and white lines or spots are harmless, according to the Mayo Clinic.
The condition of your nails can indicate health problems. Ask your doctor if you have yellow nails, pitting, curved nails, spoon-shaped nails, dark bands at the tips, indentations across your nails or nails that separate from the nail bed.
References
- Photo Credit Goodshoot/Goodshoot/Getty Images
