Are you someone who is hard on her nails, constantly keeps nails polished or someone who forgets that these even exist while going about our daily lives? For all types, it is very important to know that nails are made of the same protein ‘keratin’ as hair, and when we are so gentle and compassionate with our hair then why not our nails!
Having healthy and well maintained nails give you that elegant look and makes you come across as someone who is well kempt. And let’s agree, all of us women secretly wish to have gorgeous nails that are well groomed and are beautiful. So here are a few tips to achieve healthy nails :
Trim your nails regularly
Clipping your nails is equally important as is trimming your hair. Nail growth is hindered if you do not trim your nails regularly. If you are someone who likes to keep long nails, it is important for the health of your nails that you file them regularly so that not only are they in shape but also stay clean.
Some may even experience breakage and snags which is why it is wiser to maintain a length that is suitable to you.
Keep your hands moisturised
Do you forget to apply moisturiser on your hands and body after a bath or face wash? The answer, in most cases would be a ’No’, then why forget to moisturise your hands after every wash!
It is smart to keep a travel size hand lotion in your handbag and on your work desk and whenever you wash your hands, apply lotion on them. Do not forget to give special attention to nails and cuticles.
Do not pick at your cuticles
We understand that it is very difficult to resist the urge of picking at your cuticles but cuticles have a very important purpose to serve – they seal the base of your nail. When you pick at them too much, it exposes your nails to bacteria and thus infection.
If it gets too much and you really can’t resist the urge, you can remove cuticles once a week with a wooden cuticle remover and apply lotion on your cuticle afterwards.
Eat a healthy diet
Not many fashion tips for women would include this, but a healthy diet is very important for healthy nails. Some of us have experienced white spots on the nails or easy breakage of nails which may be due to the deficiency of minerals in your body making your nails discoloured or weak.
A diet that is good for the nails would ideally include a lot of proteins and vitamins that give you the required nutrition for your nails.
Give your nails a base coat
Many of us are either too lazy or running out of time to give our nails a base coat before applying polish. This is something that should not be compromised with. Giving a base coat prevents your nails from turning yellow or staining. It also makes your polish last longer. A useful tip no?
Use protection while doing chores
Gardening, washing dishes or clothes can expose your hands to harsh chemicals and leave your hands dry. Too much hot or soapy water can weaken your cuticles and nails. It is advisable to wear plastic, rubber or vinyl gloves while doing these chores so that not only your nails are protected but also the loads of care you gave to your hands is not washed off.
Give your nails a break
Women just love to paint their nails and switch from one shade to another, but did you know that it is important to give your nails a break?
Constantly applying paint on your nails can weaken them, make them yellow, and even cause them to break. Giving them a break would mean giving your nails some time to rest and repair. Keep your nails free during times when you do not plan to go out and leave polishing for partying.
Do not overlook the importance of taking care of your nails as these are also one of the body parts that define your looks. Armed with these tips, you will now be able to take better care of your nails.
Northern girl Laura is the epitome of a true entrepreneur. Laura’s spirit for adventure and passion for people blaze through House of Coco. She founded House of Coco in 2014 and has grown it in to an internationally recognised brand whilst having a lot of fun along the way. Travel is in her DNA and she is a true visionary and a global citizen.