Tired of getting a costly pedicure for your dull nails? We’ve got your back with these helpful tips on how to care for your nails.
Wondering what the difference is between dry and brittle nails? Experts at Cosmopolitan magazine describe dry, brittle nails as “knobs” or “needles” rather than “screws.” By comparison, healthy nails are actually called dry patch. They are also firmer and longer-lasting.
Some of the most important things you can do to keep your nails healthy include moisturizing them weekly, using a conditioner after every manicure, treating your nails with hydrating nail polish every two weeks and cutting them just long enough to avoid nails splitting.
Keep reading for five expert tips on care and repair.
1. Do a Cleanout
The first step to a successful manicure is to clean and remove nail debris from the hands. “The hardest part about getting a great manicure is the residue that’s left on your nail,” Jennifer Hopkins, an esthetician, told Cosmopolitan. The first step to proper maintenance is to regularly sweep your hands, even if you don’t have any nails at all.
2. Micromessages
Minimize your chances of damaging your nails by making sure to use a protective polish and manicure exfoliator prior to application. “Only use two applications of polish and remove it with the last polish remover,” Hopkins said. “Otherwise, the skin on your nails could receive damage.”
To get the exfoliation you need, try a gel polish remover instead of hairspray. “With a polish remover, you remove the top layer of polish, leaving an edging that allows you to get in with a razor or your fingernail file to remove any remaining products,” Stacey Lee, a New York City-based cosmetic expert and salon owner, told Cosmopolitan.
3. Moisturize
Moisturizing your nails daily and using a conditioner to make them feel softer is the key to healthy nails. Read up on how to care for your fingers in the next section of this article.
4. Protect Your Hands
If you have any skin issues, then you might have problematic nails as well. With any dermatological issues, such as acne, rashes or eczema, it’s best to first see a doctor to see what course of treatment is best. Depending on your situation, you may want to do a preventive approach to combating dry, brittle nails first.
5. Reparative Touching
When you get dirty on your hands, you can brush them a lot like you brush your hair — before your nail polish is removed. If you have dry, brittle nails, you can just brush your hands.
Also Read: How to Protect Your Nails from the Worst Effects of the Flu
0 Comments on "How to Care for Your Nails Without Spending a Fortune"