Having long nails can be both fun and frustration-inducing. Nothing is worse than busting out a manicure and only lasting a few days before a breakage occurs. To ensure long term success of a manicure and maintain healthy, beautiful long nails there are certain tips and tricks to follow. With consistent following of the tips and tricks outlined below nails can be long and healthy.
- Keep Nails Groomed
Nail care starts with grooming. Keeping nails clean and groomed is the foundation of a healthy manicure. It’s important to clean the nail bed of any dirt, oil or bacteria build up. Make sure to keep nails trimmed so that they do not curve towards the skin and cause unsightly hangnails.
- Take Vitamin Supplements
Vitamins and minerals are essential for nail health. A diet rich in vitamins, A, B and C will help to ensure healthy fingernails, as well as toenails. Taking supplements such as: biotin, omega-3, zinc, iron and amino acids will also help with nail growth and strength.
- Massage Scalp and Cuticles
Massaging the scalp will help promote healthy hair and nails. The scalp massage helps the blood circulate throughout the body and therefore increase the nutrients in the blood. The increased blood circulation will help nails receive the essential nutrients needed for growth. Massaging the cuticles also helps the nails to remain healthy, moisturized and free of bacteria.
- Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential for all aspects of health, not just nail health. Water helps to flush out the toxins in our bodies and helps to keep our skin and nails healthy. The best way to ensure nails are kept healthy and hydrated is to make sure to drink at least 2 litres of water a day.
- Wear Gloves
Wearing gloves when cleaning or doing any type of activity that involves the use of chemicals will help keep nails in great condition for a long time. These chemicals can dry out nails and damage the protective layer of the nail, causing breakage and cracking.
- Consistently Moisturize
To maintain healthy, beautiful long nails it’s important to keep nails moisturized. Make sure to regularly apply cuticle oil to the cuticles and a thick, rich hand cream to keep nails hydrated and healthy.
- Avoid Acetone Nail Polish Remover
When it comes to removing nail polish, it’s important to avoid acetone nail polish remover. Acetone nail polish remover is harsh on nails and strips away the protective top layer of the nail, making them dry, brittle and prone to breakage.
- Apply a Base Coat
Applying a base coat of nail polish is a must. Not only does the base coat act as a barrier between the nail and the nail polish color, but it also helps to keep nails healthy. A base coat helps to prevent staining and can also act as an additional protector against breakage.
- Keep Nails Short
Longer nails often become more fragile and prone to splitting or cracking. Having longer nails also makes it harder to keep them groomed and clean, making them more susceptible to infections. Keeping nails at a modest length will help maintain healthy, strong nails.
Having healthy, beautiful long nails is a possibility when following the tips and tricks outlined above. With consistent grooming, hydration, and vitamins, as well as, avoiding chemicals and always using a base coat manicures will last longer. Furthermore, with regular moisturizing and keeping nails to a modest length, nails will be healthy, strong and beautiful.
