Achieve beautiful nails for the summer season while avoiding harmful chemicals. Maintaining stunning nails doesn’t require frequent salon visits. A combination of a nutritious diet, a careful beauty routine, and proper personal hygiene can provide you with nails that look like they’re professionally done, but at a lower cost and without the excessive use of chemicals.
For more details, let’s check out this article from Nancy Nail!
How To Get Beautiful Nails?
Hydrate your skin
When applying lotion or oil to your hands, be sure to massage it into your cuticles and nails as well. Regular handwashing and the use of hand sanitizer can quickly dry out your skin and nail bed, so try to moisturize after each wash, if possible. Coconut oil is an excellent option for nourishing your nails and cuticles.
Take care of your cuticles
Avoid having your cuticles trimmed during a manicure. Cuticles serve as a protective barrier against bacteria, and trimming them can lead to painful infections. Instead, you can soften and gently push them back using a cuticle pusher and only remove any dead skin.
If you plan to get a traditional manicure, consider applying a protective layer of olive oil or almond oil to your cuticles beforehand to reduce the absorption of chemicals from the polish.
Choose gentle nail polish
Nail polish often contains harmful chemicals like toluene, dibutyl phthalate, dimethyl and diethyl phthalates, camphor, and formaldehyde. Fortunately, some brands like OPI, Orly, Sally Hansen, and Revlon offer polishes that are free from these chemicals, but be sure to carefully read the label before purchasing. Alternatively, you can opt for water-based polishes, which may not last as long but are the safest choice available.
Instead of using colorful nail products, consider buffing your nails for a more subtle yet effective approach. By carefully trimming, filing, and buffing your nails, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how impressive they can look in their natural state. Avoid the damaging practice of filing back and forth and always file from the outer edge towards the center of the nail.
Opt for a high-quality nail polish remover
You can easily find acetone-free nail polish removers, which are gentler on your nails. Brands like Priti offer removers made from soy and corn, while No-Miss has a product called Almost Natural that contains natural ingredients like fruit acids and vanilla.
Prepare a natural nail-strengthening treatment
This recipe is sourced from the book “There’s Lead in Your Lipstick” by Gillian Deacon. To create the treatment, combine 2 teaspoons of castor oil, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 1 teaspoon of wheat germ oil. Mix these ingredients and store the mixture in a sealed bottle. Apply a small amount to your nails, leave it on for 3 to 5 minutes, and then wipe it off. This recipe yields enough for 20 to 30 applications.
Things Not To Do With Nails
Avoid biting fingernails and picking cuticles
Biting your fingernails and picking at your cuticles are habits that can severely damage the nail bed, leading to long-term issues. When you bite your nails or pick at the cuticles, you not only harm the protective layer of the nail but also create openings that can allow bacteria and fungi to enter. This can result in infections, which are often difficult to treat and can significantly compromise the health and appearance of your nails.
Do not pull off hangnails
Hangnails can be annoying, but pulling them off is not the solution. When you pull a hangnail, you risk tearing the live tissue around the nail, which can lead to pain, bleeding, and potential infection.
A safer approach is to carefully clip off the hangnail using clean, sharp nail scissors or clippers. This method helps to prevent any unnecessary damage to the surrounding skin and reduces the risk of infection. Remember to disinfect any tools before and after use to maintain optimal nail hygiene.
Limit use of harsh nail care products
Many nail care products, particularly nail polish removers, contain harsh chemicals that can be damaging to your nails. Frequent use of these products can lead to brittleness, thinning, and splitting of the nails.
To avoid this, limit the use of nail polish remover and when necessary, choose an acetone-free formula. Acetone-free removers are less harsh and can help maintain the strength and moisture of your nails. Additionally, try to give your nails a break from polishes and harsh treatments from time to time to allow them to recover and breathe.
Pay attention to nail problems
Ignoring nail problems can lead to more significant health issues. If you notice any persistent abnormalities in your nails, such as discoloration, thickening, or changes in shape, it’s important to consult a doctor or dermatologist.
These symptoms could indicate underlying health problems or infections that require medical attention. Early detection and treatment of nail issues are crucial for maintaining the health of your nails and preventing more serious complications. Always prioritize the health of your nails alongside their appearance.
FAQs
Is it safe to get artificial nails or gel manicures?
- Moderation is key: Frequent use can weaken natural nails.
- Professional application and removal: Ensures minimal damage to the natural nail.
- Breaks between applications: Allow natural nails to recover.
What are the latest trends in nail art and design?
Popular designs often change with fashion trends and seasons. Besides, social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are great sources for current styles.
How can I make my nail polish last longer?
- Base and top coats: Protect color and prevent chipping.
- Avoid soaking hands in water and wear gloves for chores.
- Quick-dry products can reduce smudging.
Are there any natural remedies for stronger nails?
- Natural oils: Such as coconut or almond oil, can be used to moisturize.
- DIY scrubs: Sugar or salt scrubs can exfoliate and improve circulation.
- Diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports overall nail health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, getting beautiful nails involves a combination of proper nutrition, a consistent care routine, and embracing the latest trends in nail art. By focusing on these key areas, you can enjoy strong, healthy, and aesthetically pleasing nails that complement your overall style and beauty.