Everyone desires to have healthy, beautiful nails. It is the perfect accessory for any outfit and can give you a confidence boost. However, keeping your nails in tip-top condition can be a challenge.

While there are numerous ways you can keep your nails healthy, “distance your nails” is an essential mantra you need to keep in mind. In this article, we will be sharing tips and tricks on how to stay consistent to this mantra to maintain healthy nails.

1. Avoid biting or picking your nails

It is a bad habit to bite or pick your nails. These habits can damage your nails and lead to hangnails, polished nails, or even nail inflammation.

When you bite your nails, you put your fingers into your mouth, exposing your nails to germs that may affect your overall health. Resist the temptation and keep your hands busy with other activities.

2. Moisturize your cuticles

The cuticles of your nails protect them from bacteria and other infections. When your cuticles are dry, they become weak and can crack. Rub a cuticle cream or oil to moisturize and give nourishment to your nails.

Use a cuticle pusher to push them back occasionally too!.

3. Use gloves while working

If your work involves lifting heavy objects, washing dishes, or cleaning, always wear gloves. Gloves protect your hands from harsh chemicals that can damage your nails. Cleaning supplies like bleach weaken your nails, causing them to break easily.

4. Use a nail-essential diet

The health of your nails depends on the food you eat. For healthy nails, eat a diet rich in protein, vegetables, and fruits.

These foods contain micronutrients such as biotin, vitamin C, and vitamin E, which are critical to maintaining a healthy nail growth. Including food like eggs, spinach, kale, sweet potato, and nuts are beneficial for good nail health.

5. Trim your nails regularly

Trim your nails regularly to prevent them from breaking. Use nail clippers or nail scissors. Cutting your nails short will also prevent dirt from accumulating under them. File the nails to get rid of sharp edges.

6. Avoid acetone-based nail polish removers

Using acetone-based nail polish removers can weaken your nails. Opt for a non-acetone based remover instead. These not only don’t harm your nails, but also help to keep the nail plates strong and healthy.

7. Don’t ignore nail infections

If you notice any signs of nail infection, such as redness or swelling, discolored nails, or feeling a throbbing sensation around the nails, seek medical attention immediately.

Treating the infection as soon as possible will prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body.

8. Don’t overuse nail polish

While nail polish is a great way to beautify your nails, over-applying or overusing it can make your nails weak. Moreover, when you do apply nail polish, be sure to remove it at least once a week.

Always let your nails breathe to prevent discoloration or the development of infections.

9. Avoid using nail clippers to clean your nails

Commonly, people use nail clippers to clean their nails. However useful it may seem, using nail clippers to remove dirt from your nails can cause them to break. Instead, use a file to clean your nails, and scrub them gently.

10. Keep your feet dry and clean

Just like your hands, your feet need proper care. Always keep your feet dry and clean. Dry feet prevent accumulation of bacteria, which may develop into fungi that could infect the nails in your feet.

Keep your toes cut and clean, and wash them with soap and water.

In summary

Healthy nails are an essential part of your overall health. To keep your nails healthy and beautiful, following these ten tips will ensure you have nails that you’ll love.

Ensure you practice these tips and take them as part of your daily routine to get the best results.