Nail Care
Believe it or not, nail care is seasonal. Nails tend to grow longer and faster in the summer than the winter. This could be from the influx of more nutrients with a summer diet. Whatever the reason, they require more care and attention to make sure they are kept well manicured and presentable. Even office professionals know that well-manicured nails provide a boost to one’s image. If you want to grow your own nails for a polished look this summer, then here are some nail care tips to follow.
Eat Healthy
Like hair, nails are very susceptible to your diet. They respond well to a diet rich in vitamin B, folic acid and biotin. Foods that contain these elements are broccoli, whole grains, citrus fruits, peanuts, and fish. If you want your nails to be glossy, eat more fatty acids that come in foods like salmon and flaxseed oil.
Try A Natural Manicure
Instead of using polishes, you can give yourself a natural manicure. Just keep the nails trimmed and shaped nicely and buff the outside fingernails to a beautiful natural sheen. It keeps your nails fresh and also makes them look manicured, when they are not.
For A Polished Look
Most people want great nails so they can show them off with nail polish and nail art. There’s nothing wrong with that, except there are some options that are better than others. Many nail polishes contain toluene or formaldehyde and can be harsh on the nails, not to mention your respiratory system. If you are trying to reduce the number of potential chemicals you are exposed to, try to find nail polishes that are toluene or formaldehyde-free. There are some nail polishes being sold today that are based on soy or corn oils instead.
When It’s Time To Remove The Polish
Acetone is what is normally used to remove polish. This is another very harsh chemical that is used to strip the polish from your fingers. You can also find polish removers now that are acetone-free. It takes a bit more persistence to find natural products that don’t rely on harsh chemicals to work, but it’s worth it in the long run to maintain good nail care health.
Moisturize, Always
Whether you choose to use the natural products or remain in the chemical zone, your nails and your hands need natural oils to stay in good shape. If you are using a lot of nail or hand products, or even washing your hands too often, then you will be stripping those natural oils away. When you are done doing your manicure, or just as a daily nail care routine, don’t forget to moisturize your hands and provide the environment where they remain supple and strong. You can use herbal oils to moisturize your nails, or buy natural products that have a touch of aromatherapy in them to lighten your spirits. Wouldn’t it be great to have a manicure and love the smell of your hands afterwards, for a change?
