How to get beautiful nails

Heredity plays a role in how strong (or weak) our nails are, but you can follow these basic tips to create and get beautiful nails.

Nails that are cut straight across tend to be stronger than rounded shapes. Use nail clippers to cut across and follow with an emery board to smooth out the corners. File nails from the corners towards the centre in one direction to avoid weakening the nail. File snags before they can catch on something and tear. Buffing nails will leave a healthy shine and stimulate blood flow underneath the nail.

Some appearances are generally nothing to worry about. Vertical ridges running from the cuticle to the tip are quite common, especially as we age. Injury to the nail can leave behind white spots that will grow out with the nail.

Cuticles are the nail’s natural defence system. They prevent pathogens and foreign bodies from infecting the nail bed, so it’s not recommended to cut or push cuticles. However, removing the extra skin from a cuticle is common practice in professional manicures.

Use a cuticle remover to dissolve overgrown cuticles, then gently push back the cuticle with a towel. Moisturize your nails and cuticles regularly to prevent hangnails, peeling or cracking.

Doctors recommend drinking at least eight glasses of water a day for optimum health. Keep your body hydrated and your nails will have a better chance of retaining moisture. Some studies have shown that the B vitamin biotin helps to increase nail thickness and durability. You can take a supplement, though the vitamin is also found in foods like bananas, salmon and carrots.

Our nails can tell us when the body is experiencing a nutritional deficiency. Check your nail beds for signs of distress. Certain types of discolouration could be a signs of a health problem.

• Use a fine emery board. Coarse nail files are meant for artificial nails.
• Keep nails dry. Wear rubber gloves when washing dishes by hand or using cleaning products. Harsh chemicals can dry out and damage nails.
• Wear gloves or mittens during winter’s dry, cold months.
• Use clear nail polish with hardener if you have weak, brittle nails. This will lock in the nail’s natural moisture.

• Don’t bite your nails or cuticles.
• If you have a hangnail – a loose piece of skin near the cuticle – use nail clippers to remove it. Tearing it can rip the surrounding skin.
• Use cool or lukewarm water when washing your hands – try not to over wash.
• Avoid full-length fake nails – opt for nail tip extensions instead.
• Don’t use your nails for tasks that actually require a tool.

Our hands play a large role in our interactions with others, so make sure you figure out how to have beautiful nails if you want to make a good impression.