November 2018 www.womanthismonth.com 40 showcase Our nails speak a lot about our health and hygiene. Joz Salon & Spa brings you some essential dos and don'ts for nail care. DOS To have your nails looking their best: ►Keep the nails dry and clean – It prevents bacteria from growing under them. Repeated or long-standing water contact may contribute to the splitting of nails. Hot water and soap can be a harmful combination. Wear rubber cotton gloves when cleaning dishes or using harsh chemicals. ►Practise good nail care – Keep nails shaped and trimmed. Use a file or clippers. Cut them straight across, then round the tips in a subtle curve. ►Moisturise – Use a moisturiser or a hand lotion – rub on your nails and cuticles. The cuticles are the only line of protection between the nail bed and the bacteria and fungi of the world. Moisturising them prevents cracking and peeling, which can cause damage to the nail bed. ►Apply a protective layer – Applying a nail hardener can help strengthen your brittle and thin nails, as it fortifies them. Plus, it increases the life span of the nail polish. ►Get zinc and biotin supplements – Research says that if you are suffering from weak or brittle nails, nutritional supplement biotin can help strengthen them. And zinc is essential to help maintain healthy nails, hair and skin. ►Put a clear coat on regular polish – Adding a clear coat really helps keep nails moisturised and prevents splitting. DON’TS To prevent nail damage, do not: ►Bite your nails or pick at your cuticles – These habits can damage the nail. Even a small cut next to your nail may allow bacteria or fungi to enter and cause infection. Not only can it damage the nail bed, it also exposes your mouth to all manner of dirt and bacteria if you bite your nails. ►Pull off hangnails – Pulling hangnails can rip the live tissue and expose the nails to fungi and bacteria. Instead, carefully clip them. ►Use harsh nail care products – Limit your use of nail polish remover and, when using, opt for a formula without acetone. ►Ignore inflammation, a strange growth, colour or texture. Healthy nails should have uniform colour and consistency. If you notice something that looks abnormal, consult a dermatologist, as it may be a sign of something more serious. ►Go barefoot. Running around barefoot will attract fungus and bacteria. Keep your feet free from germs by keeping them covered. Good nail care is pretty simple – keep them clean, dry, polished, trimmed, shaped, and follow basic hygiene principles – you'll have beautiful, healthy nails for life. Call 17 369-133 or 17 756-449. Are you taking good care of your nails? Are they strong and healthy-looking, or do you see ridges, dents, unusual colours or shapes? All these conditions can be avoided by proper nail care. Others may indicate an underlying situation requiring attention. Polish Perfect
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