Tips on how to take care of your nails

Beautiful, clean, healthy and manicured nails leave an everlasting impression. They talk a lot about your health, basic hygiene and personal sense of style.  Your personal grooming is incomplete without it. Many women neglect taking care of their nails and feel that applying nice nail paint is enough, which is not true.  Nails, like other parts of the body need to be looked after. Though, they are dead cells, still they reflect your health and personality. Here are some essential tips on nail care.

Tips to prevent and repair damaged and brittle nails.

• Soak your nails in a bowl having warm water and few drops of lemon juice for around 15 minutes. Repeat this for at least 2-3 times a week.

• Soak your nails in warm olive oil daily for 10-15 minutes to make your nails stronger. Olive oil also makes your nails shine and stay smooth.

• Using a cuticle cream, massage your nails daily before retiring to bed. Make your own cuticle cream by mixing equal amounts of white iodine and castor oil.
• Vitamins are essential for your nails. Eat vitamin A and vitamin C rich diet.
• Calcium rich food such as milk, yoghurt, cheese and almonds, help to prevent brittle nails.
• Every night before going to bed, wash your hands properly and rub a small amount of petroleum jelly into the cuticles and skin surrounding the nails.
• Drink lots of water and fresh fruit juices. They keep your nails hydrated.
• Allow your nails breathe properly by giving them break from nail paint from time to time.
• Moisturizing cream or lotion helps to prevent nail splitting. After bath, apply some lotion onto your nails and massage gently.

Nail care tips:

• Cut your nails frequently in a rounded or squared shape.
• Avoid biting your nails. Nail biting makes your nails appear unhealthy and unsightly.
• Dark color nail paints causes more chapping and discoloration of nails. Therefore, avoid using darker shades. Go for clear and lighter colors.
• Always use a nail cutter to cut your nails. Avoid tearing or biting them.
• Never file you nails immediately after having a shower or washing your hands because wet nails tend to break easily.
• To protect your nails from dirt, chemicals and chapping, always wear rubber gloves whenever you are indulging in any kind of housework such as washing dishes or while working in your garden.
• A hand massage stimulates blood circulation and triggers nail growth. Go for a weekly hand massage.
• Always use a nail polish remover to remove your nail paint. Avoid using blade as you may accidentally cut your nails. Blades also leave small scratches on the nails which are not smooth and pleasant.

by sarita