Nail Care

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Nail fungus

Nail fungus is made up of tiny organisms (Tinea Unguium) that can infect fingernails and toenails. The nails of our fingers and toes are very effective barriers. This barrier makes it quite difficult for a superficial infection to invade the nail. Once an infection has set up residence however, the same barrier that was so effective in protecting us against infection now works against us, making it difficult to treat the infection.

More than 35 million people in the United States get this fungus. The fungus lives underneath the nail. The nail provides a safe place for the fungus and protects it while it grows, since fungus like dark and damp places. This is why it’s hard to reach and stop nail fungus.

The best treatment of course is prevention. Keep your nails cut straight across. If nails are hard to cut, soften by soaking in salt water (use 1 teaspoon per gallon of water and then dry well). Keep feet dry and well ventilated. Be careful with artificial nails and be selective about choosing your manicurist. Ask about how they sterilize their instruments. See a podiatrist or your health care provider if you see signs of fungus.

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Solution for Splitting Nails

Many women are plagued by fingernails that split and crack. What's causing this? Like body shape, skin tone, and hair texture, our nails' ability to grow is largely hereditary -- so if your mom had weak nails, you're likely to have them, too. That said, there are things you can do to avoid much of the splitting:

Protect your nails from water. Keep your hands out of H2O, since water can actually dry out nails, causing them to split. Be sure to wear gloves when doing dishes or cleaning.

Apply hand cream religiously. Look for a rich formula, which will seal moisture into nails, making them stronger and more flexible. And be sure to slather on cream every time you wash your hands. Dermatologists often recommend Elon Lanolin-Rich Nail Conditioner.

Limit use of nail polish remover. It contains alcohol and other chemicals which make nails brittle. Use remover no more than once a week.

Buff instead of polish. Nail polish can have a drying effect on weak nails. To get a shiny, polished effect, try a buffer. The friction it creates actually stimulates nail growth.

Keep nail length manageable. Go for no more than a quarter-inch beyond the tip of your finger, and keep nails filed into resilient soft ovals.

If you try the above with no success, consult a dermatologist.

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Tips On Nail Care

It important to have healthy nails. The color of your nails is an indicator of your general health. Your nails are a part of your body too so you must take good care of them. Here are a few tips on how to take care of your nails.

Healthy nails are transparent and look pink in color as a result of the blood beneath them.

If you wear nail polish on a regular basis then, take them off for a day or two every week, in order to let your nails breath.

Add shine to your nails by massaging coconut oil or warm castor oil on to them.

If you do not like nail polish then apply dry soap to your nail and buff or use lemon peel for a similar result.

Dip a cotton-tipped swab in hydrogen peroxide to clean under the nails and whiten them.

Before giving yourself a manicure dip your nails in a cup of warm water with one tablespoon of lemon juice.

Put your fingertips in half a lemon and twist your finger back and forth to clean the cuticles and nails.