7 Tips to Keep Nails Healthy
When people think of toenail health, they tend to think of spoiled celebrities complaining about their pedicures. Otherwise, most people just don’t see their nails as important—much less understand why they should care about their health. Toenails are important part of your feet. Not only do they affect how your toes look, but they also protect the ends of your digits. Just like any other part of your body, too, you do need to take care of them to maintain healthy nails.
When they don’t look their best, your whole foot changes. Many people find this embarrassing—sometimes embarrassing enough to avoid showing off their feet at all.
Unhealthy nails also put you at risk for bigger problems. You might be more susceptible to infections or ingrowing. Just like any other part of your body, though, you can take care of and improve the health of your toenails. Here are just a few ways you can keep your nails healthy and strong:
Keep on top of your vitamins – Certain vitamins grow stronger nails, especially biotin. If you’re prone to weak nails, ask about taking a biotin supplement.
Take breaks from polish – Nail polish doesn’t harm you for the most part, but giving your toes a break from polish can help the keratin avoid drying out.
Moisturize your cuticles – Keep cuticles healthy by applying gentle moisturizers when you take care of your feet.
Watch out for chemicals – Cleaning chemicals, certain polish removers, and even shampoos can make the hard keratin dry and brittle.
Trim nails correctly – Clip nails straight across so the keratin is even with the ends of your digits, not longer or shorter.
Watch for infections – Infections are easiest to treat early on. Watch for signs of infections in your toes and get them treated right away.
Wear shoes that fit – Footwear that is too tight or two short pinches your toes and may contribute to bruised or ingrown nails.
Basic nail care isn’t just for the pampered who can afford regular pedicures. Anyone can have healthy toenails and great-looking feet if they know how to care for them. Our team at Gulf South Foot & Ankle, LLC can help. Let us help you maintain your toenails, so you can be happy with how your feet always look. Make an appointment through our website, or just by calling our Metairie, LA, office at (504)-708-4810.