Basic Nail Care

Hello Everyone!

Basic nail care is the starting point for healthy nails. Before we start let's go over the signs of unhealthy nails.

• Dark streaks under the nail plate
• Changes in nail shape – like curled nails
• Changes in nail strength – thickening or thinning
• Separation of a nail plate from the surrounding skin - Infection 
• Cannot grow out new nails
• Nail bleeding, swelling or pain
• Discoloration over an entire nail or nails - Darkening of the nail bed

If you have any of these, please get checked out from a licensed dermatologist in your area.

Now, let's go over on how to care for your nails.

• Always trim and clean your nails to avoid bacteria/fungi build up underneath your nails. This will reduce the risk of nail breakage or ripped off the nail bed completely. If you have any sharp points on your nails, try to round them out and trim them down to an uniform height.
  
  
  
  
  
• Do not peel, pick or bite your nails/cuticles because it may cause can infection.  This is because your mouth is full of bacteria that could spread to any minor cuts. If you cannot stop biting your nails, here is an article that could help. 
  
  
  
• Leave your cuticles alone since they are important for protecting the growth matrix of your nails.
  
  
  
• Moisturize your nails daily, it will prevent dryness and keep your skin soft. I recommend buying a cuticle oil from your local drug store or online.
  
  
  
• Work in gloves if you can because harsh chemicals from dish soap can dry out your nails, which can cause them to split and crack.
  
  
  
• Be gentle when polishing your nails. Try to use non-toxic nail polish if possible and use acetone-free nail polish remover.
  

Thanks, -K

Reference 

https://fldscc.com/2020/06/15/a-guide-to-proper-nail-care/

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