Common Nail Problems
1. Brittle Nails: Often caused by overexposure to water, chemicals, or nutritional deficiencies.
2. Fungal Infections: Characterized by thickened, discolored, and often brittle nails.
3. Ingrown Nails: Occur when the corners of the nail grow into the surrounding skin.
4. White Spots: Usually a result of minor trauma to the nail or zinc deficiency.
5. Yellow Nails: Can be due to nail polish, fungal infection, or more serious conditions like thyroid disease.
Daily Nail Care Routine
1. Cleaning and Trimming
– Wash Regularly: Clean nails with soap and water, using a nail brush to remove dirt.
– Trim Properly: Cut nails straight across and round the tips in a gentle curve. This helps prevent ingrown nails.
2. Moisturizing
– Hydrate Cuticles: Use cuticle oil or cream to keep cuticles and the surrounding skin hydrated.
Use Hand Cream: Apply a rich hand cream after washing hands to maintain moisture.
3. Nail Protection
– Wear Gloves: Protect nails from harsh chemicals and prolonged water exposure by wearing gloves during household chores.
– Avoid Biting Nails: This can damage the nail bed and lead to infections.
4. Healthy Lifestyle
– Balanced Diet: Consume a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly biotin, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids.
– Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep nails and cuticles hydrated.