Take a close look at your fingernails. Are they strong and healthy looking? Or do you see ridges, dents, or areas of unusual colour or shape? Many less than desirable nail conditions can be avoided through proper fingernail care. Others might indicate an underlying condition that needs attention. You fingernails are composed of laminated layers of a protein called Keratin which grow from the area at the base of the nail under your cuticle. Healthy fingernails are smooth, without pits or grooves. They’re uniform in colour and consistency and free of spots or discolouration. Sometimes fingernails develop harmless vertical ridges that run from the cuticle to the tip of the nail. Vertical ridges tend to become more prominent with age. Fingernails can also develop white lines or spots due to injury, but these eventually grow out with the nail.

Below Are Ways To Care For Your Fingernails

Fingernail Care: Do’s

Keep Your Fingernails Dry and Clean

This prevents bacteria from growing under your fingernails. Repeated or prolonged contact with water can contribute to split fingernails. Wear cotton-lined rubber gloves when washing dishes, cleaning or using harsh chemicals.

Protect Good Nail Hygiene

Use a sharp manicure scissors or clippers. Trim your nails straight across, then round the tips in a gentle curve.

Fingernail Care : Don’ts

Do Not Bite Your Fingernails Or Pick Your Cuticles

These habits can damage the nail bed. Even a minor cut alongside your fingernail can allow bacteria or fungi to enter and cause an infection.

Don’t Use Harsh Nail Care Products

Limit your use of nail polish remover. When using nail polish remover, opt for a acetone-free formula

Don’t Ignore Problems

If You have a nail problem that doesn’t seem to go away on its own or is associated with other signs and symptoms, consult your doctor or dermatologist for an evaluation.

By and large, if you rely on manicures for healthy-looking nails, keep a few things in mind. Stick to salons that display a current state licensed and work only with technicians also licensed by state board. Don’t have your cuticles removed, they act to seal the skin to the nail plate, so removal can lead to nail infection. Also, make sure your nail technician properly sterilizes all tools used during your procedure to prevent the spread of infection. It is easy to neglect the your nails but taking some basic steps keep your finger nails healthy, strong and beautiful.