The do’s and don’ts of healthy nails

Understanding your nails and how to care for them.

• DON’T use your fingernail as tools to open or prod things, or prise things off; this will lead to nail damage.
• DON’T bite you nails and nick your cuticles. These bad habits will damage the nail bed and any cuts that may occur around your nail may lead to bacterial or fungal infection.
• DON’T peel off old nail polish or overlays; this will cause irritation to the nail bed and end up in unwanted damage.
• DON’T use too much nail polish. Apply nail polish in even thin coats, allowing each layer to dry thoroughly for a longer-lasting manicure.
• DO moisturise hands frequently with a nourishing, nail-strengthening hand cream, not forgetting to rub it into your cuticles too for soft skin and strong nails.
• DO cut and shape nails frequently, using nail clippers and snipping the nail in one go, rather than in sections. And file in one direction, not back and forth, to prevent nails from breaking.
• DO protect your nails and keep them clean and dry to prevent fungi from growing under them. Wear rubber gloves with a cotton lining when doing any housework and reduce bath times.
• DO baby your cuticles. Apply cuticle oil or Vaseline around your fingernails to keep cuticles soft. Do this every evening right before bed.
• DO dip your fingernails in olive oil two to three times a week for two to three minutes for strong and healthy-looking nails.