I’ve always believed in the importance of good grooming. Clean and well-maintained nails not only look attractive, but can also say a lot about a person’s good hygiene and positive personal demeanor.
Whereas dirt underneath the nails might indicate that it’s been awhile since he last washed his hands, or chipped polish might lead some to believe that she’s too lazy to fix it. You get the idea. But did you know that your fingernails can also present clues to your general well-being and act as reliable indicators of underlying ailments? Horizontal lines across the nails can be an observable marker of stress. Small cysts that grow around the cuticle can be a warning sign of arthritis. Rough, ridged nails can sometimes be a symptom of acute or chronic kidney disease. The list goes on, which makes you realize just how truly important your fingernails are to your overall health, and how important it is to keep them in good shape. Nails are layers of structural proteins called keratin, and as we grow older, we produce keratin at a slower rate. Exposure to elements, such as hand-washing, cleaning agents, or a frigid winter day can all further lead to chipped, peeling and unsightly nails. Here are a few ways to improve the condition of your fingernails and get you on track to growing strong and healthy nails:Moisturize More Than You Thought
Moisturizing your nails and providing proper hydration can prevent them from becoming brittle and dry by shielding the nail plate from the everyday elements. It’s important to moisturize after partaking in these everyday activities, such as washing your hands, as you are essentially stripping them of moisture. While a bottle of hand lotion is great for hydration throughout the day, cuticle oils work even better to get deep down into the nail bed, especially into the cuticles where the nail begins its growth. Healthy nails go hand in hand with healthy cuticles. Don’t attempt cutting your cuticles on your own as that allows bacteria to enter the nail bed. Instead, use a soft cotton swab to gently push them back. A great way to moisturize your cuticles is in an olive oil nail soak. Massage olive oil into your nail bed and cuticle, then let them sit soaking in a small bowl for 10 minutes. If you’re noticing an infection or fungus on your nail, tea tree oil is a great alternative to help heal and nourish.Pop A Biotin Supplement
Peeling and breakage can be a telltale sign of biotin deficiency. Biotin is a B vitamin that helps support keratin levels, the foundation of the nail. In order to be effective in strengthening your nails, a minimum of 30 mcg must be taken daily.
