How to take care of your nails, because they deserve it too

If you want to have great nails, going to a salon isn’t always the answer. You can have beautiful nails if you know how to take care of it with proper diet and hygiene. But of course, the question now is ‘how do you do it’. Look no more because we have gathered some of the best tips you can do to maintain beautiful and healthy nails.

Taking care of your nails

Don’t trim your cuticles

When having a manicure, try not to cut your cuticles. If you must know, cuticles serve as protection from bacteria. Cutting them may lead to infections. What you can do as an alternative is to use cuticle pusher.

Choose the right nail polish

We know that it can get very tempting to try out unique colors and styles for your nails. However, you have to be cautious on the materials that you will use. You have to watch out for the following chemicals as these can be harsh on your nails:

• formaldehyde
• toluene
• camphor
• dibutyl phthalate
• diethyl phthalates
• dimethyl

The good news though is that there are brands which created safer nail polish. Look for Revlon, Orly, or Sally Hansen. As a rule of thumb, make it a habit to check the labels. Similarly, look for safer nail polish removers and stay away from ones which use acetone.

Don’t forget to moisturize your nails

You read that right.  It is important that you moisturize your nails as well. So if you are putting on your lotion, make sure that you don’t miss your nails and cuticles. If you often wash or use alcohol and hand sanitizers, the more reason you have to moisturize your hands and nails. Experts also recommend using coconut oil.

Eat the right food and stay healthy

If you eat the right food, it will make your nails stronger. You will unlikely to experience brittleness or white spots. But what are the foods that you can consume to maintain amazing nails?

Foods high in protein

• Boiled eggs
• Peanut butter
• Cheese

Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids

• Mackerel
• Oysters
• Seaweed and algae  

Foods high in vitamin B 

• Leafy greens
• Liver and other organ meats
• Beef

Foods with zinc  

• Legumes
• Nuts
• Whole grains

Foods with iron 

• Spinach
• Pumpkin seeds
• Turkey

Foods rich in calcium 

• Yogurt
• Almonds
• Amaranth

Foods high in vitamin A 

• Cod liver oil
• Sweet potato
• Carrots

Foods rich in vitamin C 

• Chili peppers
• Guavas
• Thyme

Lastly, always remember to hydrate yourself. So, have a glass or a bottle of water with you at all times.

Even with all the fad of beautifying your nails, it is always better to keep it healthy the natural way. You don’t have to spend too much, and again, there is no need to regularly visit a nail salon. Just remember, moisturize, stay away from harsh chemicals, and eat good food. With these, your nails will be in its optimum look and condition even without concealing it with colors and gems.

Do you have more tips on how you can take care of your nails? We want to learn more from you too.