The condition of your nails can actually give you a sense of your health and nutrition. With some careful attention to what you eat and how you treat your fingers and toes, you can have healthy nails.
Aging, too much time in water, contact with harsh chemicals, or other stresses can cause your nails to be brittle-easily broken, rigid, thin, and dry. Poor nutrition can also lead to nail problems. Iron, vitamins A and C, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and biotin should all be in your diet. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, milk or yogurt, eggs, fish, and whole grains.
Biotin, a B-Complex vitamin, is a supplement that has been proven to help nails. It helps your body form keratin, which makes up your hair and nails. I like Natures Made products.
Top tips to protect your nails:
- Use gloves when washing dishes or cleaning
- Do not over use nail polish remover- acetone removes natural moisture from your nails
- Use a nail moisturizer
- Keep toenails trim to avoid ingrown nails
- Use scissors to trim fingernails, then even them out with a nail file
Tea tree oil fights nail fungus
Nail fungus causes cloudy white or yellowish spots on your nails. It can also become flaky, and when not taken care of can cause the nail to become loose and even fall off. If the problem is on your toes, keep your feet dry and cool. Apply tea tree oil, a natural anti-fungal, on the infected areas. See a doctor if it doesn't clear up. You may need prescription ointments. Try this Vicks Vapor Rub may treat nail fungus. Camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol can kill fungus. Use once a day for several months to see results.
Simple Soak: Remove Stains from you Nails
Mix 1 cup of water and 2 teaspoons hydrogen peroxide in a small bowl. Soak your finger tips for about 10 minutes. Scrub under your nails with a soft brush, rinse, dry, and apply moisturizer. Rub a lemon wedge on your nail tips to make them whiter.
Avoid Nail Salon Dangers
- Make sure all tools are disinfected between uses.
- Bring your own tools, like emery boards which cannot be sterilized.
- Do not shave before your pedicure. Small nicks on your skin can let in bacteria.
- Do not let the technician cut your cuticles. These sharp tools can damage healthy skin.
- Make sure your manicurist is licensed.
