10 Bad Habits That Harm Nail Health: How to Get Rid of Them?

Maintaining healthy and beautiful nails is always a priority. Nails aren't just a part of personal beauty; they also reflect our overall health. If you're concerned about the health and beauty of your nails, it's essential to be aware of harmful habits that can damage your nails and negatively affect their condition. In this article, we'll discuss common bad habits that can lead to nail damage and deterioration of their health. Understanding and avoiding these habits can be your first step toward maintaining strong, beautiful nails.

10 Wrong Habits That Harm Nail Health

Here are the wrong habits that can harm your nails' health, which you should either avoid or address to maintain their beauty and health. In addition, make sure to maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and consult a doctor for any significant issues:

1. Nail Biting: This habit causes nail cracks, deformities, and increases the risk of bacterial or fungal infections. Wearing gloves or finger cots can help you break this habit.

2. Excessive Nail Extension: Overly long nails are more likely to break, bend, and trap dirt and germs that can be transferred to your mouth or eyes. Trim your nails regularly to keep them at a reasonable length.

3. Removing Skin Around the Nails: The skin around your nails protects them from injury and infection. Don't cut or remove this skin with your teeth or scissors, as it can lead to inflammation and bleeding. Instead, gently push it back using a wooden or metal stick and moisturize it with a specialized cream or oil.

4. Inadequate Nutrition: Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in nail health, as they require vitamins, minerals, and proteins for growth and strength.

5. Excessive Nail Polish: Nail polish adds color but too much can lead to dryness, breakage, and discoloration. Choose high-quality polish free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and phthalates. Also, give your nails time to breathe by removing polish periodically.

6. Peeling Off Nail Polish: Using your fingernails or sharp tools to peel off nail polish damages the top nail layer, making it brittle and prone to cracking. Use a gentle polish remover to avoid harming your nails.

7. Using Nails as Tools: Using your nails to open things or clean is a common bad habit that can lead to breakage or damage. Use proper tools for such tasks and avoid misusing your nails.

8. Not Using Nail Hardener: Nail hardener products nourish and strengthen nails while protecting them from damage. Use them regularly, especially before applying nail polish.

9. Cleaning Without Gloves: Not using gloves during cleaning exposes your nails to chemicals, hot water, and bacteria, leading to dryness, cracking, discoloration, and irritation. Wear rubber or plastic gloves when cleaning and avoid exposing your nails to hot water or strong detergents.

10. Neglecting Creams and Sunscreen: Skipping creams and sunscreen can leave your nails vulnerable to the sun, air, and cold, resulting in dryness, cracking, and discoloration. Apply moisturizing cream or nail oil daily and use nail sunscreen or clear polish with sun protection.

Important Nail Care Tips

• Trim your nails regularly and straight using clean, sharp scissors. Avoid biting or uneven cutting.

• File your nails gently with curved movements from the sides to the center using a clean, non-metallic file.

• Clean your nails daily with a clean nail brush and mild soap, keeping them dry and free from dirt.

• Moisturize your nails and the surrounding skin with specialized cream or oil daily.

• Use a suitable nail hardener to nourish and strengthen your nails.

• Choose high-quality nail polish free from harmful chemicals, and remove it gently with a soft polish remover.

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

• Consult a doctor for any nail issues, such as changes in color, shape, thickness, swelling, or pain, as these could indicate underlying health problems.

In Conclusion 

Maintaining healthy nails is not only about aesthetics but also a reflection of overall well-being. Avoiding harmful habits, nourishing nails through a balanced diet, and adopting a proper nail care routine can help you achieve strong, beautiful nails. Remember to consult a doctor for any nail concerns to ensure your nails remain a symbol of good health and beauty.