Having beautiful nails doesn’t happen overnight, and anyone who loves to wear gel polish knows the importance of having a clean and healthy foundation. You don’t just slap on the polish and move on. There’s a lot of prep involved, but it can be less time-consuming if you maintain a consistent routine to keep your nails clean and healthy.
The Importance of Healthy Nails
Your nail care routine is important for more reasons than aesthetics. Strong, healthy nails are a clear indication that your body is nourished and taken care of.
You know your nails are healthy if:
- They appear smooth, without ridges or dents.
- They have an even tone with no spots or unusual marks.
- They are firm, but flexible, rather than brittle and splitting.
- They have a pinkish hue; the nail bed should also be clearly visible.
You might have unhealthy nails if:
- Discolouration appears, spots that are yellow or white.
- Splitting or peeling happens regardless of length.
- They’re thin and break without even trying.
- With or without redness, swelling, and pain around the nail bed.
- They grow infrequently and unevenly.
Proper nail care results in:
- Improved hands’ aesthetic appearance for you and your customers.
- Reduced risk of fungal and bacterial infections.
- Improved comfort while using your as you work and perform your daily activities.
- Increased longevity of any nail products you use, from gel to acrylic.
- Enhanced confidence brought on by having well-manicured nails.
Step-by-Step Nail Care Routine
Following a good nail care routine doesn’t have to be complicated and lengthy. It’s about developing the right habits so your nails not only look healthy but look like they’ve been cared for by professionals.
Keep your nails clean and dry
It’s the simplest, most basic routine and something you shouldn’t do without ever.
- Dirty, wet nails attract bacteria and give the impression that you don’t value hygiene and grooming at all. If you can’t be bothered to clean your nails, what else is left dirty and unsanitary?
- Regularly wash your hands and nails to prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria that can result in infections, such as fungal infections and other nail-related problems.
- Make sure to clean under your nails, scrubbing away any dirt and debris lurking underneath.
- Make sure to dry them thoroughly because moisture can weaken nails, making them brittle. If you work with water most of the time, wear gloves to prevent prolonged exposure that can make nails prone to breakage.
Regularly trim and file
There’s nothing wrong with keeping your nails long, provided that you carefully care for them.
- Dirt and bacteria tend to accumulate under long nails and will require a good cleaning to maintain proper hygiene.
- Trim and clip your nails every one to two weeks, or depending on how fast they grow, using high-quality nail clippers to ensure a clean cut and no breakage.
- Always cut the nail straight across and then slightly round the tips to keep the nails strong.
- Always file nails after trimming to smooth out any rough edges. Gently file in one direction to get the best results.
Moisturise your nails and cuticles
Any activity that exposes your nails to water will strip out their natural oils, leaving them vulnerable to breakage, cracking, peeling, and splitting.
- Apply a good-quality cuticle oil to replace lost natural oils and moisture. This also adds a protective layer over your nails to prevent water absorption.
- For the oil to really moisturise and take effect, regularly apply the oil before bed. It’s also recommended that you apply oil before showering or swimming to boost nail protection against water damage. Remember to massage the oil into the cuticle area.
- Another option is to apply hand cream daily. Make sure to use products that contain jojoba oil, shea butter, and/or vitamin E.
Maintain a healthy diet
You probably know that certain foods can help strengthen your nails and keep them beautiful. With a proper diet, your nails can be healthy from the inside out.
- Nails receive nutrients from nutrient-rich blood, which means eating the right foods will benefit your nails.
- Foods rich in vitamins and minerals can make your nails stronger and healthier. Make sure to incorporate into your diet nuts, eggs, fish and leafy greens, all of which provide your nails the nutrients they need.
- A well-balanced plant-based diet is recommended for strengthening your nails and helping them grow out healthy.
- Take supplements to fill the gap in your diet. The best vitamin B12 supplement, for example, can boost hair growth and overall vitality.
Make a habit out of your nail care routine
Now you know what to do; make it a natural part of your weekly routine. Once you develop the habit of taking care of your nails regularly, it’s easier to follow and maintain a nail care routine.
- Most nails become thin and brittle once they reach a certain length. Decide which length is optimal for your nails and give them a cut or trim the moment they get past it.
- Take vitamins and eat a healthy diet to protect your nails against damage.
- Remember to trim, file, and moisturise regularly.
- When polishing your nails, always start with a clear base coat to protect your nails and prevent stains.
To maintain strong and healthy nails, proper care is essential, and the best routine starts with developing the right habits.