Keeping the nails clean and healthy might not be on the list of things of personal grooming for most Australians. Not to mention how the same nails interact with virtually every part of the human body, from the skin to the face and, in doing so, transfer millions of bacteria and other microbes. Proper nail hygiene involves having a strict regimen of trimming and cleaning followed by the occasional electric nail drill to file them down. Besides, a nail maintenance routine will keep potential infections and other skin diseases at bay.
Contrary to popular belief, taking care of fingernails doesn’t have to be expensive or strenuous. But it does pay off as those who diligently practise proper nail care routines can show off those healthy nails without embarrassment. So why bother waiting for the problem to arrive? Start practising appropriate nail hygiene with the help of these pointers mentioned below:
1. Clipping And Filing: Clip the nails once every two or three weeks and keep them at a length that is neither too short nor too long. Long nails tend to interfere with daily activities, and shorter ones may not be good looking. Most experts recommend doing this once every 15 days, and soon after the nails are clipped, filing them down. One can use either a long file or an electric nail drill, whichever suits best. Electric nail drills can give that polished look in less time. File the edges too and smoothen them out to prevent any rough scratches.
1. Poking The Insides: Don’t use pointy tools to scoop out the insides of a nail. A nail brush works fine for this purpose, but take care not to do aggressive cleaning as it can lead to bacterial infections. It’s a good idea not to let any pointy object inside the nail or the nail bed.
2. Infections: In case an infection does break out, consult a doctor immediately and get the proper treatment. Although they appear harmless in the initial stages, infections can develop into a full-blown inflammation that can be painful to deal with. Common signs of infection usually involve redness around the nail bed and swelling.
3. Washing The Nails: Dish soaps work well for hands and nails and are great for dislodging the grease and oil under the nails. Take care to use lukewarm water and, after washing, a soft cloth to clean the hands and around the cuticles. Once it’s dry enough, apply moisturizer to keep them flexible and healthy. If washing dishes is a regular chore, make sure to use gloves as hot and soapy water can be detrimental to nail health if exposed to it regularly.
4. Manicures: It might be beneficial to cut back on manicures and nail polishes or get a fresh coat if needed and keep it simple. Avoid acrylic nails at all costs and protect the hands from the scorching heat with the help of sunscreen.
Regular hygiene routines can keep the nails healthy and strong for years to come but always keep an eye out for any possible infections. Visible signs such as discolouration might be an indication of a health problem. For those who like to eat with their hands, make sure that the nails are clean all the time and wash them thoroughly afterwards as food particles and germs can get stuck inside. As an added note, watch your diet and ensure that the body gets all the vitamins and minerals it needs. If nutrients are lacking in the regular diets, consult a doctor for supplements like biotin and vitamins.
