Every person’s body requires proper care. We all know the importance of maintaining good hygiene to prevent illnesses or infections. However, people often overlook a crucial part of personal hygiene – nail care.

Our nails are constantly exposed to various germs and viruses, making them a breeding ground for bacteria. Therefore, taking care of your nails is an essential task. But, one of the most common questions that arise regarding nail care is – Should we cut our nails or not?.

What Happens if you Don’t Cut your Nails?

Long nails look great, but they can pose risks to one’s health. Dirt, bacteria, and germs get trapped underneath the nails and, if not removed, can cause infections or impact our health in other ways.

As per dermatologists, fungus and harmful bacteria thrive in damp areas. If nail beds remain moist due to the nail’s length, it can create a breeding ground for bacteria that can lead to infections like nail fungus or paronychia.

Long nails are also prone to damage, breakage, or tearing, leading to pain and a high risk of infection.

Benefits of Cutting Your Nails

Cutting your nails has many benefits that go unnoticed. First and foremost, it helps to maintain good hygiene, keeping the nails free of dirt and bacteria. This practice also helps to prevent the spread of germs and viruses.

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Shaping and cutting nails also maintain proper nail health and avoid the growth of thick and discolored nails. Long nails are more likely to accumulate dead skin cells and dirt, making it more difficult to clean them. Regularly cut nails are easier to clean and maintain; this also helps to ensure that you stay free of infections and related diseases.

Types of Nails

Two broad categories classify nails – Fingernails and toenails. However, there are further classifications within those categories. Fingernails come in three types:.

• Soft nails – Our nails are supposed to be hard and strong, but soft nails peel easily, break or split. Soft nails are generally due to genetics and nutritional deficiencies. People with soft nails must keep them trimmed short to avoid any damage or tearing.
• Brittle nails – Brittle nails also break or split but because they may lack sufficient moisture. They can also occur due to excessive use of nail polish, aging or menopause. Keeping the nails moisturized and trimmed helps to prevent damage.
• Normal nails – Normal nails are the best type, with no splitting, breaking, or peeling. They are robust, shiny, and healthy.

Toenails also have three categories:.

• Curved toenails (Pincer nails) – As the name suggests, these nails curve inwards to their edges, often creating pain, inflammation, and can lead to an infection
• Ingrown toenails – An ingrown toenail occurs when the nail grows into the skin instead of above it. This can cause pain and discomfort, leading to infections. It’s always best to cut your nails straight across if you have ingrown toenails
• Normal toenails – These toenails have normal growth with no abnormal curves or fungal infections. These nails are thicker and harder than normal fingernails and must be cut straight whenever possible.

How to Cut Your Nails

Here’s a quick three-step process of how to cut your nails:.

1. Soak your nails for a minute or two in soapy water. This helps to soften the nails and cuticles, making them easier to trim.
2. Use nail cutters or scissors to trim the nails – Cut straight across and avoid rounding the edges; this helps to prevent ingrown toenails.
3. File your nails – Use a file to give your nails the desired shape. But remember to file just one direction to avoid splitting or breaking.

Conclusion

It’s always best to cut your nails rather than leaving them long. It helps prevent infections and ensures good health by maintaining proper hygiene.

Cutting your nails in the right way also helps to prevent ingrown toenails, fungal infections, and skin irritation. Taking care of your nails is essential for maintaining your overall health and well-being.