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| Natural Nails |
Keeping
your fingernails looking their best doesn’t take a lot of time, but it
does require some regular care. Cuticles should be moisturized and
groomed; nails should be properly trimmed, filed and protected. Just
follow these common-sense tips.
DO
moisturize your cuticles daily to prevent hangnails, cracking and
peeling. Just before bed is a perfect time. Massaging the cuticle area
also stimulates blood circulation, which helps nail growth. When
applying hand cream or sunscreen during the day, take an extra few
seconds to rub a little on the cuticle area of each finger.
DON’T
cut your cuticles. Unless you’re a trained nail tech, you can cause
more harm than good because cuticles form barrier that protects the
nail. Instead, apply a cuticle remover to soften and dissolve dry,
overgrown cuticles. Then use a soft-tipped cuticle pusher to gently push
back the cuticles.
DO
shape your nails with a fine-grit cushion file. Coarse-grit files are
designed for use on artificial nails, and are too harsh for natural
nails. Avoid metal files; cushion files are gentler on the skin around
your nails.
DON’T saw your nails back and forth with a nail file; it can weaken the nail’s free edge. Instead, file nails from the corners towards the center in one direction.
DO
try buffing natural nails for a healthy shine that won’t chip off! Use a
four-way buffer to shape nails, remove ridges, smooth the nail surface
and give nails a super shine without polish.
DON’T
over-buff. Too much buffing can cause friction, build up heat and
weaken nails. Always use a super-fine-grit nail buffer to lightly smooth
ridges. Buff in an X pattern, lifting the buffer between strokes. If
you wear polish, apply a ridge-filler base coat first.
DO revitalize fragile nails with a nail strengthening treatment. Apply daily or as directed for best results.
DON’T
bite your nails or use them as tools. Both of these activities will,
obviously, weaken or break nails. If you get a deep nail tear, mend it
temporarily with a clear adhesive tape until it has a chance to grow
out.
DO wear nail polish; it can help protect nails and prevent
breakage. For a no-fuss natural look, simply apply a topcoat. Make sure
your nails are clean and your tips look nice and white before applying
any clear or sheer polish.
DON’T
expose nails to household cleansers or harsh chemicals. Even prolonged
exposure to fresh water can dry out nails and hands. Wear gloves when
cleaning, and apply hand lotion after every time you wash or wet your
hands.
