Have you ever dream of having strong, beautiful nails that turn heads? It’s achievable! But achieving healthy nails goes beyond just a fancy polish. Daily habits and proper care are key. In this guide, we’ll explore the do’s and don’ts of nail care, providing you with the knowledge you need to transform your nails from fragile to fabulous. Get ready to ditch the bad habits and embrace practices that will promote healthy nail growth and keep your tips in tip-top shape!
HEALTHY NAILS: KNOWING THE SIGNS OF STRENGTH AND WHEN TO SEEK HELP
Your fingernails, made of layers of keratin protein, grow from the base under your cuticle. Healthy nails are smooth, uniform in color, and free of spots. Vertical ridges are sometimes harmless and more noticeable with age. White lines or spots from injury grow out with the nail.
However, not all nail conditions are normal. Seek medical advice if you notice:
Changes in nail color or a dark streak under the nail
Changes in nail shape like curling
Nails becoming thinner or thicker
Nail separating from surrounding skin
Bleeding, swelling, or pain around the nails
Nails failing to grow
HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR HEALTHY NAILS
PRACTICE GOOD NAIL HYGIENE
Proper trimming is a key part of nail hygiene. Use sharp manicure scissors or clippers for this purpose. It’s best to trim your nails straight across and then gently round the tips in a curve. This will help prevent nail damage and maintain the strength of your nails.
KEEP YOUR FINGERNAILS DRY AND CLEAN
It’s crucial to prevent bacteria from growing under your fingernails, and keeping your nails dry and clean is the first step. Constant or prolonged exposure to water can lead to split fingernails. Therefore, it’s wise to wear cotton-lined rubber gloves when doing activities that involve water or harsh chemicals, such as washing dishes or cleaning.
USE MOISTURIZER
Just like your skin, your nails and cuticles also need hydration. Whenever you apply hand lotion, make sure to massage it into your fingernails and cuticles as well. This will keep them moisturized and healthy.
APPLY A PROTECTIVE LAYER
Using a nail hardener can provide an extra layer of protection for your nails. It can help strengthen your nails and prevent them from getting chipped or damaged.
CONSIDER BIOTIN SUPPLEMENTS
Biotin is a nutritional supplement that is known to enhance the health of your hair and nails. Some studies suggest that it can help strengthen weak or brittle fingernails. However, it’s advised to consult your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.
WHAT SHOULDN’T YOU DO WHEN CARING FOR YOUR NAILS?
Taking care of your nails is an essential part of personal hygiene. Here are some in-depth tips to avoid common problems:
DON’T BITE YOUR FINGERNAILS OR PICK AT YOUR CUTICLES
These actions may seem harmless, but they can cause significant harm to your nails. Engaging in these actions can damage the nail bed, which is the protective layer beneath your nails. Even a small cut on your finger can create an opportunity for bacteria or fungi to enter, leading to potential infections.
LIMIT THE USE OF HARSH NAIL CARE PRODUCTS
Certain nail care products can be damaging to your nails. For instance, frequent use of nail polish remover can dry out and weaken your nails. When you do need to use nail polish remover, opt for a formula that doesn’t contain acetone, as this ingredient can be particularly harsh on your nails.
DON’T IGNORE PERSISTENT NAIL PROBLEMS
If you notice a nail issue that doesn’t improve over time, or if it’s associated with other symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical advice. Schedule an appointment with your doctor or dermatologist for a thorough evaluation and treatment plan.
AVOID PULLING OFF HANGNAILS
Hangnails can be irritating, but yanking them off isn’t the solution. When you tear off a hangnail, you risk ripping live tissue along with it, which can lead to pain and potential infections. Instead of pulling, use a clipper to carefully trim the hangnails.
A NOTE ABOUT MANICURES AND PEDICURES
Manicures and pedicures can be a great way to pamper yourself and keep your nails looking their best. However, it’s essential to approach these treatments with caution to maintain the health of your nails and skin.
Firstly, always ensure that the salon you visit follows strict sanitation practices. The tools used should be sterilized between customers to prevent the spread of infections. Inquire about their cleaning procedures to ensure your safety.
Secondly, ask your nail technician to be gentle with your cuticles. Cuticles serve as a protective barrier for your nails, and pushing them back too far or cutting them can lead to nail infections.
Thirdly, while gel and acrylic nails can look fantastic, they can also be harsh on your natural nails, leading to weakening and breakage. The UV light used to cure the gel polish can also be harmful to your skin, so it’s recommended to apply sunscreen on your hands before getting a gel manicure.
Lastly, if you notice any changes in your nails or skin after getting a manicure or pedicure, such as redness, swelling, or pain, it is important to seek medical attention. These could be signs of an infection or allergic reaction.
Remember, it’s always okay to voice any concerns or preferences you have during your appointment. After all, the goal is not just beautiful nails, but healthy ones as well.
FAQ
1. Do I need to trim my nails?
Yes, regularly trimming your nails with sharp clippers or scissors helps prevent breakage and keeps them neat.
2. How should I trim my nails?
Trim your nails straight across and then gently file the edges into a rounded shape. Avoid cutting into the corners, which can lead to ingrown nails.
3. Should I push back my cuticles?
Gently pushing back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher is fine, but don’t cut them. Cuticles help protect your nails from infection.
4. What foods help my nails grow strong?
A balanced diet rich in protein, biotin, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins B and iron can contribute to healthy nails.
Yellow toenails might be caused by a fungal infection or from using nail polish too much without letting your nails breathe.
CONCLUSION
By following these simple do’s and don’ts, you can keep your nails healthy, strong, and looking their best. Remember, healthy nails are not just about beauty; they can also be an indicator of your overall health. So, take care of your nails, and they’ll take care of you!
15 BEST DEEP CONDITIONERS FOR CURLY HAIR, ACCORDING TO HAIRSTYLISTS AND EDITORS
Want to give your curly hair some extra TLC? Deep conditioners are a curly girl’s best friend, adding moisture, definition, and shine to your locks. But with so many products on the market, it can be tough to choose which one is right for you. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best deep conditioners for curly hair, according to hairstylists and editors. Whether you have fine, thick, or color-treated hair, there’s a deep conditioner on this list that will help you achieve your best curls yet!
OUR TOP PICKS
SPOILEDCHILD M26 DAMAGE REVERSER
SpoiledChild M26 Damage Reverser is a hair mask designed to repair and revitalize damaged hair in just 10 minutes. It targets breakage, restores strength, and aims to fortify hair to prevent future damage. The key ingredients are Argan oil and Keratin, both known for their hair repair properties. This product is ideal for those with dry, dull, or frizzy hair caused by heat styling, chemical treatments, or coloring. Users report that the mask leaves hair shinier, softer, and more manageable.
BREAD BEAUTY HAIR-MASK DEEP CONDITIONER
Bread Beauty’s Hair-Mask Deep Conditioner is a popular choice for its ability to both strengthen and soften hair. It contains unique ingredients like Australian Kakadu Plum Seed Oil, which is lightweight and effective at keeping hair moisturized and supple. Customers love that this mask hydrates and detangles hair, leaving it feeling soft, luxurious, and quenched. This deep conditioner comes in two sizes, a 3.3 oz and a 12 oz dispenser, to fit your hair care needs.
SHEA MOISTURE INTENSIVE HYDRATION HAIR MASK
SheaMoisture’s Intensive Hydration Hair Mask, also known as the Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Masque, is a deep conditioning treatment designed specifically for dry, damaged hair, particularly curly hair. It promises to intensely hydrate and nourish hair with a blend of key ingredients. Certified organic Shea Butter, Manuka Honey, and Mafura and Baobab Oils work together to restore and lock in moisture. This rich formula also contains African Rock Fig, an antioxidant that helps strengthen hair follicles and promote frizz-free hair. Overall, the SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Hair Mask aims to revitalize dry, damaged hair, leaving it smoother, stronger, and healthier.
MIZANI 25 MIRACLE MILK LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER
Mizani’s leave-in conditioner is a versatile hair product praised by hairstylist Ryan Babbitt for its multiple benefits. This sulfate-free formula is rich and nourishing, yet lightweight, making it ideal for various hair types. Babbitt uses it for shine enhancement, detangling, as a cutting lotion during trims, and even as a daily leave-in conditioner for curly hair. It also boasts a “fresh and honest” scent, although some might find it strong.
BRIOGEO DON’T DESPAIR, REPAIR! DEEP CONDITIONING MASK
Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask is a hair treatment designed to restore and revitalize dry, damaged, or chemically treated hair. This intensive weekly treatment uses natural ingredients to deliver essential hydration and enhance hair’s resilience to protect against future damage.
The mask is formulated with Briogeo’s NOVA Complex, a blend of transformative nutrients including B-vitamins, rosehip oil, argan oil, algae extract, and biotin. These ingredients work together to replenish damaged hair, leaving it shiny, healthy-looking, and manageable. Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask is free of sulfates, silicones, phthalates, parabens, DEA, and artificial dyes, making it a good choice for those with sensitive scalps or color-treated hair.
COLOR WOW MONEY MASK DEEP HYDRATING & STRENGTHENING HAIR TREATMENT
Designed by celebrity stylist Chris Appleton, COLOR WOW’s Money Mask Deep Hydrating & Strengthening Hair Treatment is a luxurious hair mask aimed at achieving salon-quality shine and health at home. This weightless formula penetrates deep into the hair to deliver a powerful dose of moisture and fortify strands with marine-derived ingredients. Key components include Blue Sea Kale, which strengthens hair, and a Mediterranean Sea Kelp and Algae Blend that provides deep hydration. Suitable for all hair types, the Money Mask is touted for leaving hair glossy, supple, and manageable with continued use. You can use it weekly or as often as every three shampoos for an extra boost of hydration and heat protection.
DAVINES LOVE CURL CURLY HAIR MASK
Davines Love Curl Hair Mask is a deep conditioning treatment designed specifically for wavy or curly hair. It promises to tame and nourish even thick, unruly strands. This mask focuses on improving manageability and curl definition. The formula contains ingredients like Noto almond, rich in proteins and vitamins, to boost elasticity and volume in your curls. It also contains panthenol for added shine and vitamin E to combat frizz. The Davines Love Curl Hair Mask is described as having a pleasant citrus scent and is designed to leave your curls soft, bouncy, and easier to manage.
DESIGN ESSENTIALS ALMOND & AVOCADO WASH DAY DEEP MOISTURE MASQUE
Designed specifically for dry hair, Design Essentials’ Almond & Avocado Wash Day Deep Moisture Masque is a concentrated treatment that promises intense hydration. This rich mask is formulated with the nourishing properties of Almond and Avocado oils, aiming to strengthen hair while locking in moisture. It goes beyond just hydration though, targeting increased elasticity and shine for your hair. This paraben, phthalate, silicone and gluten free formula is also said to improve detangling and manageability, making wash day a breeze.
BUMBLE AND BUMBLE THICKENING PLUMPING MASK
Bumble and Bumble Thickening Plumping Mask is a lightweight hair mask designed to add volume and body to fine or thin hair. This product is formulated with their Strand-Plumping Technology, which is designed to plump up each hair strand from root to tip for a thicker overall look. It also contains Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, which adds volume and bounce, and Kukui Seed Oil and Coconut Oil to condition and smooth hair.
Bumble and Bumble Thickening Plumping Mask is free of parabens, formaldehydes, phthalates, and mineral oil, and is also cruelty-free. It is ideal for those with fine to medium hair who are looking for a lightweight hair mask that will add volume and hydration without weighing hair down.
L’ANZA TRAUMA TREATMENT
L’Anza Healing ColorCare Trauma Treatment is a hair product designed to repair and revitalize color-treated hair that has been damaged by chemical processing, heat styling, or environmental factors. This restorative conditioner contains a blend of amino acids and ceramides to strengthen hair and improve color longevity. It also offers triple UV and heat protection to help prevent future damage. Users report that L’Anza Trauma Treatment leaves hair feeling shinier, softer, and more manageable. This product is available in two sizes, a 5.1 fl oz bottle and a 1 liter container.
ADWOA BEAUTY BAOMINT DEEP CONDITIONING TREATMENT
Adwoa Beauty’s Baomint Deep Conditioning Treatment is designed to detangle and invigorate your scalp with a cool and refreshing experience. This treatment, particularly suited for kinky, coily and curly hair, focuses on deep moisture to support length retention and healthy hair growth. The key ingredients are Baobab Oil, known for its moisturizing properties, and a blend of Mint Oils for their scalp-stimulating and possibly hair growth supporting effects. This product is advertised to be particularly effective for medium to thick hair. Users can expect softer, more manageable curls with continued use.
LIVING PROOF NO FRIZZ INTENSE MOISTURE HAIR MASK
Living Proof’s No Frizz Intense Moisture Hair Mask is designed to combat frizz and bring intense moisture to coarse, thick hair. It promises to deliver smooth, manageable hair without any greasy weighdown often associated with heavy conditioners. This silicone-free formula utilizes a unique technology to target frizz while still providing deep hydration. Shea butter is included in the ingredient list to further nourish hair and potentially extend the time between washes. Living Proof’s No Frizz Intense Moisture Hair Mask is ideal for those struggling with frizzy, thick hair who are looking for a lightweight mask that delivers both moisture and frizz control.
SHU UEMURA ULTIMATE RESET HAIR MASK FOR VERY DAMAGED HAIR
Designed for very damaged hair, Shu Uemura’s Ultimate Reset Hair Mask is an intensive repair treatment that specifically targets hair weakened by chemical processes like bleaching, coloring, and frequent heat styling. This rich mask is formulated with Japanese-sourced rice extract, which is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These ingredients work together to nourish hair from within, fortifying hair fibers and repairing damage. The result? Hair that is stronger, less prone to breakage, and visibly smoother and shinier. This mask is suitable for all hair types, though those with very damaged hair will benefit most.
ORIBE MOISTURE & CONTROL DEEP TREATMENT HAIR MASK
Oribe’s Moisture & Control Deep Treatment Hair Mask is a luxurious hair mask designed to deliver intense hydration and manageability to all hair types, particularly curly hair. This silicone-free formula features coconut and almond oils to quench dry strands, prevent breakage, and repair damage. It also works to seal the hair cuticle, further promoting moisture retention and adding shine. Users can expect smoother, softer, and more manageable hair with continued use.
VIRTUE FLOURISH THICKENING & HYDRATING MASK FOR THINNING HAIR
Virtue Flourish Thickening & Hydrating Mask for Thinning Hair is a targeted treatment designed to address concerns of thinning hair. This whipped, creamy yet weightless mask promises multiple benefits. It aims to strengthen hair strands and support healthy hair growth, all while delivering intense hydration. This two-pronged approach can leave hair feeling stronger, shinier, and silkier, with the potential to help prevent breakage often associated with thinning hair. The key to Flourish Mask lies in its use of Alpha Keratin 60ku CLINICAL, a patented protein that Virtue Labs claims is clinically proven to be effective. This protein is said to thicken, strengthen, and repair hair while also balancing the scalp to create an optimal environment for growth.
WHAT IS DEEP CONDITIONING + WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
According to Larry Sims, a hairstylist and co-founder of Flawless by Gabrielle Union, deep conditioning is like giving your hair a super boost of care. It’s especially important for people with curly hair because it helps keep their curls healthy and strong, even if they use heat or chemicals on their hair.
When you’re picking a deep conditioner for curly hair, look for ones with ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, and shea butter. Avoid ones with alcohol or sulfates because they can dry out your hair.
Using a deep conditioner is easy. After you shampoo your hair, put the deep conditioner on your damp hair, making sure every strand is covered. You can use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to help spread it evenly.
You can leave the deep conditioner on for 5 to 10 minutes for a quick treatment, or you can cover your hair with a shower cap and sit under a hooded dryer for a more intense treatment. Then rinse it out with cool water before styling your hair as usual.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A DEEP CONDITIONER
When choosing a deep conditioner, there are a few key factors to consider to target your specific hair needs:
Hair type and condition: Are your curls in need of definition or moisture? Is your hair fine and limp or thick and coarse? Dry, damaged hair will benefit from intense moisture, while fine hair might need a lightweight formula to avoid weighing it down.
Ingredients: Look for ingredients that address your concerns. For moisture, seek out emollients like butters and oils, and humectants like glycerin and aloe vera. Protein is great for strengthening damaged hair, but too much can be drying.
Desired benefits: Do you want frizz control, manageability, or heat protectant qualities? Some deep conditioners offer multiple benefits, while others specialize in a particular area.
Here’s a quick breakdown of some common deep conditioner benefits and their corresponding ingredients:
Moisture: shea butter, coconut oil, jojoba oil, glycerin, aloe vera
Keep in mind that some deep conditioners are designed for specific hair types, such as curly hair or color-treated hair. Reading the label and understanding your hair’s needs will help you pick the best deep conditioner for you.
CONCLUSION
Whether you have wavy, curly, or coily locks, finding the right deep conditioner can transform your hair care routine. By considering your curl type, hair condition, and desired results, you can choose a product that provides the moisture, strength, and control your curls need. With so many great deep conditioners on the market and the right combination of products like hair masks for curly hair or a scalp massager, we believe you will have beautiful, healthy hair from deep within. Happy conditioning!
