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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.
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!
HERE ARE THE 18 BEST CONCEALERS FOR OILY SKIN THAT YOU SHOULD NOT MISS
Are you struggling with oily skin and looking for a long-lasting concealer? The downside to shiny skin is that concealer easily rubs off or wrinkles throughout the day. But don’t be afraid! Here’s a guide to the 18 best concealers for oily skin, specifically formulated to combat shine and provide flawless coverage. We already know about primer products for oily skin that give a long-lasting base. So, in this article, get ready to discover new divine concealers for oily skin!
OUR TOP PICKS
AMI COLÉ SKIN-ENHANCING CONCEALER
The Ami Colé Skin-Enhancing Concealer is a great option for those seeking a natural, radiant finish. This lightweight formula is breathable and won’t clog pores, making it suitable for oily skin types. It offers buildable coverage to target blemishes and hyperpigmentation, while still allowing your natural glow to peek through. The concealer is also infused with nourishing ingredients like baobab seed extract, hibiscus flower extract, and pumpkin seed extract to keep your skin hydrated and comfortable throughout the day.
REVLON COLORSTAY SKIN AWAKEN™ 5-IN-1 CONCEALER
Revlon’s ColorStay Skin Awaken™ 5-in-1 Concealer promises to be your daily dose of wakeup for your face. This multi-tasking formula is designed to not only hide imperfections and dark circles, but also brighten, hydrate, and refresh your skin. Infused with caffeine and vitamin C, it aims to tackle puffiness and signs of fatigue. With a lightweight, buildable texture that offers transfer-resistant natural coverage, this concealer claims to stay put for a full 24 hours.
SAIE BEAUTY HYDRABEAM BRIGHTENING + HYDRATING CREAMY UNDER EYE CONCEALER
Saie Beauty’s Hydrabeam Brightening + Hydrating Creamy Under Eye Concealer is ideal for those who prioritize hydration and a natural look. This concealer offers light to medium, buildable coverage that evens out under-eye darkness while leaving a dewy, radiant finish. Packed with ingredients like cucumber extract and olive-derived squalane, it hydrates and soothes the delicate under-eye area, aiming to prevent creasing throughout the day.
REVOLUTION CONCEAL & DEFINE CONCEALER
Revolution’s Conceal & Define Concealer is a cult-favorite for a reason. This drugstore option offers full coverage at an incredibly affordable price. The matte formula makes it ideal for oily skin, controlling shine and providing long-lasting wear. The creamy texture blends seamlessly to conceal blemishes, dark circles, and hyperpigmentation. Plus, it comes in a whopping 50 shades to suit a wide range of skin tones.
MILK MAKEUP FUTURE FLUID ALL OVER MEDIUM COVERAGE HYDRATING CONCEALER
Milk Makeup Future Fluid All Over Medium Coverage Hydrating Concealer is a multi-tasking product that offers the best of both worlds for oily skin. The creamy formula provides medium coverage to conceal blemishes and even skin tone, while remaining lightweight and comfortable to wear. Hyaluronic acid keeps your skin hydrated throughout the day, and the blendable texture ensures a natural, crease-proof finish. This is a great option for those who want a concealer that conceals imperfections without looking cakey or feeling heavy on oily skin.
IT COSMETICS BYE BYE UNDER EYE CONCEALER
IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Full Coverage Anti-Aging Waterproof Concealer is a popular choice for those seeking a full-coverage solution for dark circles and imperfections. Thistarte concealer offers highly pigmented, creamy formula that conceals blemishes, hyperpigmentation, and even wrinkles. It’s infused with anti-aging ingredients like hydrolyzed collagen, peptides, and vitamins to target signs of aging around the eyes. The waterproof formula ensures it stays put all day, even through tears, sweat, and humidity.
ARMANI BEAUTY LUMINOUS SILK FACE AND UNDER-EYE CONCEALER
Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Face and Under-Eye Concealer is a luxurious option that offers radiant, medium coverage. The lightweight, buildable formula blends seamlessly to camouflage blemishes and dark circles, leaving a dewy, luminous finish. It’s formulated with ingredients like glycerin, caffeine, and vitamin E to hydrate and brighten the under-eye area, aiming to reduce puffiness and diminish the appearance of fine lines. This concealer is perfect for those who want a natural, glowing look that lasts all day.
17. SECOND SKIN ENHANCING CONCEALER
Rounding out our list is the budget-friendly 17. Second Skin Enhancing Concealer from Boots. This drugstore favorite is a great option for beginners seeking a balance between coverage and affordability. Thanks to its high pigmentation, it offers medium to full coverage to tackle dark circles and blemishes, yet reviewers say the formula feels lightweight and comfortable on the skin. Plus, it’s dermatologically tested, suggesting it should be suitable for most skin types.
MAYBELLINE INSTANT AGE REWIND ERASER DARK CIRCLE TREATMENT CONCEALER
Maybelline’s Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circle Treatment Concealer is a drugstore favorite known for its multitasking abilities. This lightweight, clickable concealer offers buildable coverage to address dark circles and imperfections. It’s formulated with a cooling micro-swivel tip that massages the under-eye area, aiming to de-puff and brighten. Blended with Haloxyl, a trademarked ingredient, it claims to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a smoother, younger-looking appearance.
FENTY BEAUTY PRO FILT’R INSTANT RETOUCH CONCEALER
Fenty Beauty’s Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Concealer is a cult-favorite for a reason. This creamy, long-wearing formula offers light-as-air, medium to full coverage that seamlessly evens skin tone and targets blemishes. The impressive 50-shade range ensures a perfect color match for all complexions, making it a strong contender for inclusivity. It boasts a lightweight, crease-proof formula that sets to a soft matte finish, ideal for oily skin types who want a concealer that lasts all day.
ROSE INC. SOFTLIGHT CLEAN DEWY HYDRATING CONCEALER
The ROSE INC. Softlight Clean Dewy Hydrating Concealer is a standout product designed to provide seamless coverage with a radiant finish. Infused with skin-loving ingredients, it offers a hydrating formula that ensures a smooth and dewy complexion. This concealer is ideal for those with oily skin, as it balances hydration without adding excess shine. Additionally, its clean, vegan, and cruelty-free formulation makes it a conscientious choice for beauty enthusiasts. The Softlight Concealer effectively conceals imperfections while promoting a naturally luminous look.
NARS RADIANT CREAMY CONCEALER
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer is a multi-award winning favorite for a reason. This luxurious concealer offers buildable, medium coverage that goes beyond just concealing. It features unique light-diffusing powders that blur imperfections without looking heavy. The formula is infused with hydrating and nourishing ingredients to keep skin comfortable and radiant throughout the day. This concealer is perfect for those who desire a flawless, yet natural-looking finish that lasts.
DIOR BACKSTAGE CONCEALER
Dior Backstage Face & Body Flash Perfector Concealer is a luxurious option for those seeking full coverage with a radiant finish. This high-end concealer boasts a whopping 22 shades with 4 undertones to ensure a perfect match for various skin tones. Packed with caffeine, it aims to energize the skin and visibly de-puff under-eye circles. The innovative brush applicator allows for precise application, while the waterproof and crease-proof formula guarantees your flawless look stays put all day.
BOBBI BROWN SKIN CONCEALER STICK
Bobbi Brown’s Skin Concealer Stick is a hydrating, long-lasting formula that caters specifically to dry and under-eye skin. This creamy concealer offers buildable, medium coverage, letting you target dark circles and blemishes without looking cakey. The key here is its hydrating properties – it aims to reduce the look of dryness throughout the day, making it ideal for those who struggle with creasing or flakiness in concealers. This Bobbi Brown concealer is a great choice for achieving a natural, fresh look on areas that need a little extra TLC.
TARTE SHAPE TAPE FULL COVERAGE CONCEALER
Tarte Shape Tape Full Coverage Concealer is a cult-favorite for its high-performance formula. This full-coverage concealer offers exceptional pigmentation to camouflage blemishes, dark circles, and hyperpigmentation. It boasts a long-wearing, crease-proof formula that stays put throughout the day without feeling heavy on the skin. However, it’s recommended to apply a hydrating moisturizer underneath for drier skin types to prevent cakiness.
M.A.C PRO LONGWEAR CONCEALER
M.A.C Pro Longwear Concealer is a favorite among makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts alike for its full-coverage, long-lasting formula. This liquid concealer offers exceptional pigmentation to completely conceal blemishes, dark circles, and hyperpigmentation. It boasts a waterproof and transfer-resistant finish that stays put for up to 24 hours, making it ideal for oily skin types or those seeking budge-proof coverage. However, the formula can be drying on some skin types, so applying a hydrating moisturizer underneath is recommended for a more comfortable wear.
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP CAN’T STOP WON’T STOP 24HR FULL COVERAGE MATTE CONCEALER
NYX Professional Makeup Can’t Stop Won’t Stop 24HR Full Coverage Matte Concealer is a drugstore favorite known for its impressive staying power. This full-coverage concealer offers excellent pigmentation to tackle blemishes, dark circles, and hyperpigmentation. The matte formula is ideal for oily skin types, controlling shine and ensuring your makeup stays put throughout the day. However, for drier skin types, applying a hydrating moisturizer underneath is recommended to prevent cakiness.
BENEFIT BOI-ING CAKELESS CONCEALER FULL COVERAGE LIQUID CONCEALER
Benefit’s Boi-ing Cakeless Concealer Full Coverage Liquid Concealer is a popular choice for those seeking a full-coverage concealer that won’t feel heavy or cakey. This creamy formula offers exceptional pigmentation to address blemishes, dark circles, and discoloration. It boasts a lightweight, yet long-wearing finish that stays put throughout the day without creasing. The unique flexible cushion tip applicator allows for easy and precise application, making it a great option for both beginners and makeup pros.
WHAT A DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDS FOR OILY SKIN
COVERAGE
Coverage level: Consider how much coverage you need. For dark circles and blemishes, you might opt for a full-coverage concealer, while for a more natural look, a sheer or medium coverage formula might be sufficient.
FORMULA
Skin type: Those with oily skin will benefit from matte or water-based concealers that control shine. Dry skin types might prefer creamier, hydrating formulas.
Finish: Consider the desired finish. A matte finish offers full coverage and shine control, while a dewy finish provides a more natural, radiant look.
SHADE
Matching your skin tone: This is crucial! Ideally, choose a concealer that exactly matches your foundation shade. For the under-eye area, you might go one shade lighter to brighten and counteract darkness.
Undertone: Look for concealers that consider your skin’s undertone, whether cool, warm, or neutral. Choosing the right undertone will ensure a natural, seamless blend.
HOW TO APPLY CONCEALER IN THE RIGHT WAY
While mastering concealer application takes practice, there are pro tips that can elevate your results. Celebrity makeup artist Kelli Anne Sewell suggests a strategic approach for blemishes: apply concealer after foundation, target the specific blemish only (“spot concealing”), and let it set for a minute or two before blending. This allows the concealer to fully adhere, maximizing coverage and minimizing the risk of the product moving around during blending. “This allows the concealer to almost ‘bake’ on your face and gives you maximum payoff and additional coverage,” she explains.
For under-eye circles, celebrity makeup artist Daniel Beecham, whose work has graced the covers of GQ, Vanity Fair, and Essence Magazine, recommends applying a few dots of concealer and letting them sit for a minute before blending them outwards. This short waiting period allows the product to settle and potentially improve its ability to brighten and conceal darkness. “If you want to hide a deep under-eye bag, use your regular color concealer, but then take a color a few shades brighter with a thin brush and dab right into the crease and feather away the edges,” she says. “This will catch the light and make the bag appear less visible.” Once you’ve blended in your concealer, use a damp sponge or a fluffy brush to apply a light layer of setting powder to make sure it lasts.
CONCLUSION
So there you have it – the 18 best concealers specifically formulated to combat shine and provide flawless coverage for oily skin types! Whether you seek full-on camouflage, a dewy radiance, or a budget-friendly option, this list offers a range of formulas and finishes to suit your needs. Remember, considering coverage level, formula type, and shade are key factors in finding your perfect match. With a little trial and error and the application tips from the pros, you can achieve a flawless, shine-free base that lasts all day. Happy concealing!
