How to Get Healthy Cuticles and Nails
Healthy nails and healthy cuticles are a sign of good health and good hygiene, and overall they're far more aesthetically pleasing than unhealthy ones. Whether your nails and cuticles are currently in an unhealthy state, or you want to maintain their current health, you don't need to spend a fortune on expensive products or regular weekly manicures. With a little commitment, time and care, you can easily get and maintain healthy cuticles and nails. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Stop biting your nails. Biting your nails can damage the nail bed and nail, leading to weak, uneven, torn nails. When nails need to be cut, use nail clippers and a file to smooth any uneven spots resulting from cutting them. When part of your nail breaks, avoid biting the rest of it off. File it down instead.
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Stop picking your cuticles. Pulling at loose or hanging skin can cause cuts, which in turn may lead to bacterial or fungal infection. Picking cuticles leaves them red and inflamed, and causes unnecessary pain.
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3
Clean underneath your nails regularly. Remove dirt from underneath your nails with a wooden nail tool. This will ensure that your nails remain clean and free from any bacteria or harmful organisms.
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Protect your nails and cuticles when cleaning. Avoid cleaning products with harsh chemicals that could damage and dry out your nails. When cleaning the bathroom, doing dishes, or performing any other tasks that expose your nails and cuticles to cleaning chemicals, wear rubber gloves.
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Moisturize. Prevent your nails from becoming brittle and dry by applying lotion directly onto the nails and around the entire cuticle and nail bed. This will keep your nails moist and hydrated.
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Eat well. Eat foods rich in proteins and vitamins, such as chicken, beans, tofu, eggs, and beef, as well as fruits and vegetables. If you feel that you aren't getting enough vitamins in your diet, try taking a multi-vitamin each day. A healthy diet will ensure that your nails grow strong and your cuticles remain healthy.
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Avoid using your nails as tools. Avoid scraping, scratching, tearing, pulling, or peeling with your nails. Treating your nails like tools will cause them to break, wear away, and peel.
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References
- Photo Credit filing fingernails image by Brett Mulcahy from Fotolia.com