Always wash your hands thoroughly.
Make sure your hands are thoroughly clean after washing them by removing all polish traces with an acetone-free remover that won’t dry out your nails. Using a clean toothbrush and soap, gently scrub the area around the nails to remove any debris and any dead skin without the use of abrasive, drying chemicals.
Take care of your nails.
Treat your nails gently; they are delicate. Dr. Stern advises against using metal tools under nails because excessive digging can lead to onycholysis, a condition that is common in people over 50 and causes the nail plate to separate from the skin. Nails can become brittle when cleaned with chemicals or washed by hand.
Healthy Nail Indices:
- The color of the nail plates is pinkish-white.
- Remember that cuticles exist and don’t cut them!
- White tips and nails are of uniform length.
- the prominent white area at the base of the nail is shaped like a half-moon (lunula)
Nail Health Warnings:
- Nail peeling or splitting could be caused by dryness or a vitamin deficiency.
- Tiny white spots are usually a sign of over-nail-painting or over-nail-biting.
- Horizontal grooves can be caused by stress, fever, or jamming your finger.
- Removal or biting of the cuticles may cause red, swollen skin around the nails.
- The presence of spoon-shaped nails may indicate anemia or iron deficiency.
It’s crucial to see a dermatologist if you have concerns about the health of your nails. it’s easier to tell if a problem develops, meaning you can treat it early if you get help.