Your nails are strong and healthy looking with no dents, ridges, or areas of unusual color or shape. Here are a few dos and don’ts for your nails to stay beautiful looking and healthy for a long time. 

Nail care: Dos

• Keep them dry and clean to prevent bacteria from growing under your fingernails. If your nails make contact with water often or for a prolonged time, it can contribute to split fingernails. Protect your nails by wearing cotton-lined rubber gloves when dealing with water in your household or at work.  

• Use sharp manicure scissors or clippers. Trim your nails straight across, then round the tips in a gentle curve.

• Moisturize your nails. Rub hand lotion into your fingernails and cuticles, too.

• Apply a protective layer, such as a nail hardener, to help strengthen your nails.

Nail care: Don'ts:

• Biting your fingernails or picking at your cuticles can damage the nail bed. Even a tiny cut alongside your fingernail can let bacteria or fungi in and cause an infection.

• Pulling off hangnails can rip live tissue along with the hangnail. Carefully clip off hangnails instead.

• Harsh nail care products can damage nails, too. If you’re using nail polish remover, look for an acetone-free one.

• If you have a nail problem that doesn't seem to go away on its own or is associated with other signs and symptoms, see your doctor, don’t ignore it. 

Important!

If you get manicures or pedicures, stick to salons that have a current state license, and work only with technicians also licensed by the state board. 

Don't have your cuticles removed, as they act to seal the skin to the nail plate, which means removal can lead to nail infection. 

Make sure your nail technician properly sterilizes all the tools used during your procedure to prevent the spread of infections and viruses.