Condition Your Nails
Here are some useful tips for conditioning your beautiful nails.
Steps
- Moisturize. You can use a normal hand lotion to decrease cracking and drying of your nails and fingers.
- Application of nail hardeners may also help seal in moisture and provide hard surface over the nails. Dermatologists usually recommend protein hardeners or products that contain nylon rather than that ones made with formaldehyde, which causes reactions in certain people and is a health risk. Nail hardeners are available in the nail and makeup section of most stores. Contrary to some promotional claims, however protein and other substances applied to the surfaces do not sink into or "feed" the nails.
- Care for your cuticles. The cuticle is the area where the skin connects to the nail. The nail grows from the cuticle, so keeping it moisturized is important to the condition of your nails. Avoid cutting or tearing the cuticle. If you are doing a manicure, press it back gently and allow it to form the shape naturally as it grows and is pressed back. The cuticle can be moisturized with hand lotion or with specialized cuticle oil from the makeup and nail section.
- Use good mani manners. Before painting your nails or applying false nails, always use a clear base coat to protect the nail. A polish created specifically as a base coat will have less impact on your nail than a typical clear polish, colored polish, or glue. When removing false nails, use acetone and do not rip them off forcefully. After using acetone, wash your hands and apply moisturizer to avoid dryness caused by the chemical.
Warnings
- Do not use cheap nail conditioners, these can cause serious irritations and allergies
