nails for small hands

NAIL CARE TIPS: DO’S AND DON’TS FOR HEALTHY NAILS

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.

5. Why are my toenails yellow?

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!

HOW TO FIND THE BEST NAIL SHAPE FOR YOUR HANDS

Have you ever stared at endless nail polish colors and dazzling designs, only to be stumped by the most basic question: what nail shape should I choose? The perfect nail shape can elevate your manicure, making your hands look polished and elongating your fingers. But with so many options, from classic round to trendy coffin, how do you find the one that flatters your hands the most? This guide will help you navigate the world of nail shapes, matching your unique hand shape to the most complimentary style. Get ready to find your perfect mani match!

A VISUAL GUIDE TO NAIL SHAPES

Choosing a nail shape can feel overwhelming with so many options available. But fret no more! This guide explores some of the most popular shapes to help you find your ideal match.

Oval: Offering a classic and flattering look, the oval shape features straight sides that soften into a gentle, rounded tip. It works well with both medium and long nails.

Square: Simple and chic, the square shape boasts straight sides and a blunt, straight-filed free edge. Keep in mind, this style can visually widen your nails.

Almond: This universally flattering shape is a crowd-pleaser. Starting with a wide base, the sides are tapered to a pointed peak at the tip, creating an elegant almond silhouette.

Squoval: Think of a softer square. This low-maintenance option combines the elegance of the oval with a flatter tip. Simply file straight across the free edge, then smooth out the corners with a single stroke.

Coffin (Ballerina): This glamorous shape offers an edgy-yet-feminine vibe. The sides taper towards a pointed tip with a distinctive flat top. However, sturdy and long nails are a must for this dramatic look.

Stiletto: For the bold and daring, the stiletto boasts a dramatic pointed tip. While typically achieved with acrylics, strong natural nails can also rock this style.

Long square nail:  offer a chic and edgy look.  They elongate fingers and create a striking silhouette. However, this dramatic shape can be impractical for daily tasks and requires strong nails to maintain their sharp edges. If you crave a statement piece and have a commitment to upkeep, long square nails might be your perfect match.

Lipstick nails: a playful design inspired by the iconic beauty product. These nails are typically short and filed into a rounded rectangle shape, mimicking the tube of a lipstick. This fun and quirky design is perfect for adding a pop of personality to your manicure, but keep in mind it’s not as common as other shapes.

Round nails: This classic shape is perfect for those who prefer shorter nails or dislike sharp edges. Round nails also provide a clean canvas for showcasing bold colors and intricate nail art designs.

HOW TO FIND THE BEST NAIL SHAPE FOR YOUR FINGERS: WHAT’S YOUR HAND TYPE?

SHORT FINGERS

Round nails are best as they elongate and slenderize fingers by following the natural shape of the fingertip and creating a symmetrical curve.

TO LENGTHEN & SLIM FINGERS

Almond nails are flattering with their slender sides and slim base, achieved by filing each side and narrowing the free edge to create a peak.

THE INFLUENCER

Lipstick nails have a unique diagonal slant at the squared tip, perfect for trendsetters seeking a distinctive nail shape.

LOW MAINTENANCE

Square nails are ideal for long, narrow nail beds and short lengths, offering a straightforward filing process in a straight line across the free edge.

THE UNIVERSAL SHAPE

Squoval nails blend oval and square, flattering short nails with easy maintenance. Begin by filing straight across and rounding the corners.

WIDE NAIL BEDS AND LONG NAILS

Oval nails elongate both width and length, resembling an almond shape but slightly blunter. File each side towards the center to achieve an egg-like shape.

SHORT FINGERS AND LONG NAILS

Stiletto nails, best with acrylics, feature a sharp point that tapers towards the tip. Shape both sides to a slight taper and narrow the free edge for a pointed peak.

FOR THE ACRYLIC ENTHUSIASTS

Ballerina (or Coffin) nails suit long, slender fingers with their squared-off tips resembling a pointed shoe. They require salon upkeep for the angled cuticle look.

THE DIVA

Long square nails are tailored for long, narrow nail beds and acrylic lovers, supporting trendy shades and nail art with a straight-line filing technique.

FAQ

1. Can I achieve a certain nail shape with short nails?

Yes! Round, squoval, and oval shapes work well with shorter nails. Square and coffin shapes typically require more length.

2. What nail shape makes my fingers look longer?

Oval, almond, and coffin shapes all elongate fingers due to their tapered points or curved sides.

3. What’s the difference between almond and oval nails?

Almond nails have a sharper, more pointed tip compared to the softer curve of an oval shape.

4. How often should I file my nails?

File your nails every 1-2 weeks to maintain their shape and prevent breakage.

5. Where can I find inspiration for nail shapes and designs?

Browse social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest for endless nail art inspiration and trendy nail shapes.

CONCLUSION

The world of nail shapes offers endless possibilities to complement your unique style and enhance your hands. With a little knowledge of your hand shape and personal preferences, you can find the perfect polish to elevate your nails. A small tip to keep in mind to perfect your nails is to consider the nail polish color that complements your skin tone. So go ahead, explore the different shapes we’ve discovered, and embrace the fun and creativity that come with finding your ideal nail style!