Isla Bennett
Having good-looking nails is an indicator of good health, but sometimes our nails aren't as strong as we'd like. There are several ways to improve the appearance of your nails, including maintaining a well-balanced diet, a thoughtful beauty regimen, and good personal hygiene. It is also important to avoid common pitfalls such as biting your nails or using harsh nail products that can cause damage. To make your nails look good, you can try a French manicure, a gel manicure, or simply buffing and filing your nails.
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What You'll Learn
Keep nails trimmed, filed, and buffed
Keeping nails trimmed, filed, and buffed is a simple and effective way to make bad nails look good. Here are some detailed tips to help you achieve well-groomed nails:
Trimming Nails:
- Aim to trim your nails regularly, ideally once a week, to maintain a neat appearance and prevent them from becoming too long or unruly.
- Choose an appropriate nail clipper or nail scissors that are sharp and well-maintained to ensure precise cutting.
- Cut your nails straight across to create a clean, uniform shape. Avoid cutting them too short to prevent pain and potential nail bed injuries.
Filing Nails:
- Use a nail file, such as a glass file or emery board, to shape and smooth the edges of your nails after trimming.
- File in one direction, preferably from the sides towards the center, to avoid causing nail splitting or weakening.
- Create a natural, rounded shape or a square shape with slightly softened corners, depending on your preference. Avoid overly pointed or sharp shapes that can be more prone to breakage.
Buffing Nails:
- Buffing your nails can give them a natural shine and a well-groomed appearance without the need for nail polish.
- Use a nail buffing block or pad, which typically has different grit levels for gentle to more intensive buffing.
- Start with the finer grit side to smooth the nail surface, then move to the medium grit to add shine, and finally, use the finest grit to polish and add a glossy finish.
- Avoid over-buffing to prevent thinning or damaging your nails. It's recommended to buff your nails once every few weeks, depending on their condition and growth rate.
By combining regular trimming, filing, and occasional buffing, you can achieve and maintain good-looking nails. These steps provide a natural approach to nail care, enhancing the health and appearance of your nails without the need for potentially damaging nail treatments or artificial enhancements.
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Moisturise nails and cuticles with oils
Cuticle oil is a moisturising product designed for your nails and cuticles. It is typically made from vegetable oils, and sometimes contains vitamins and citric acid. Cuticle oils can be used to restore the health of your nails and cuticles, particularly if they are dry, cracked, or damaged.
Cuticle oil can be purchased with vitamins or other ingredients, such as antioxidants. For example, Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream includes Vitamin E and antioxidants. Opi Avoplex Nail & Cuticle Replenishing Oil also contains Vitamin E and has a brush for application. Dior Crème Abricot is another option, which comes in an embossed jar. While cuticle oil is not necessary for nail health, it can be a great treatment for dry nails and cuticles.
There are also other oils that can be used to moisturise nails and cuticles. Jojoba oil is a popular choice, and can be purchased in a pen applicator. Argan oil is another option, as are almond oil, olive oil, avocado oil, and flaxseed oil. These oils can be purchased in larger bottles, which may encourage more frequent use.
You can also make your own cuticle oil by mixing essential oils or a combination of vitamin E, coconut oil, almond oil, and olive oil.
To use cuticle oil, simply dab a small amount onto your nails and cuticles, and rub it in. You can also use a brush applicator to apply a generous layer of oil around the cuticle. It is recommended to apply cuticle oil once a day.
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Avoid biting nails and hangnails
Biting your nails and hangnails is a common habit, but it can have negative consequences for the health and appearance of your nails and skin.
Firstly, it's important to understand why you bite your nails. Nail biting is often a coping mechanism for feelings of nervousness, boredom, loneliness, or hunger. It can also be a habit that begins in childhood, with many children outgrowing it, but some continuing into adulthood. If you can identify your triggers, you can try to find alternative ways to cope with those feelings. For example, you could keep your hands or mouth busy by fiddling with a stress ball or chewing gum.
To avoid biting your nails, you can start by keeping them trimmed short, as this reduces the satisfaction associated with biting them. You can also apply a bitter-tasting nail polish, which will deter you from putting your nails in your mouth. Wearing gloves or using stickers designed to cover nails can also help, as they create a physical barrier.
Additionally, taking care of your hangnails is crucial. Hangnails should be cut at the root with clippers instead of being ripped off by hand, which can cause skin tears. Applying cuticle oil daily can help keep your nails and the surrounding skin hydrated and healthy. It's also important to leave your cuticles alone, as they act as a natural barrier to bacteria and fungi. If you need to push them back, use a cuticle pusher instead of biting or picking at them.
By following these steps, you can avoid the negative consequences of biting your nails and hangnails, such as damaged tissue, abnormal nail growth, dental problems, and increased vulnerability to infections.
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Choose non-toxic nail polishes and removers
Keeping your nails in good shape is easy and fun, and choosing non-toxic nail polishes and removers is an important part of maintaining their health. Standard nail polishes and removers can contain harsh chemicals that can damage your nails and cuticles, causing dryness and brittleness. Non-toxic alternatives are healthier and more environmentally friendly options that can make your nails look and feel great.
Non-toxic nail polishes are free from harmful chemicals such as acetone, alcohol, parabens, and formaldehyde. These polishes are often water-based and solvent-free, resulting in a product that is safe for both adults and children. They are usually quick-drying and can be easily removed, minimising the need for harsh removers. Some popular brands offering non-toxic nail polishes include Zoya, Karma Organic, and Gurl Gone Green. These polishes come in a variety of colours and provide a smooth and even application, lasting for several days without chipping.
When it comes to nail polish removers, acetone-based products are particularly harmful to your nail health. They strip moisture from your nails, leading to dryness, brittleness, and peeling. Non-toxic nail polish removers, on the other hand, are formulated with safer ingredients that nourish your nails and cuticles while effectively removing polish. These removers often contain natural ingredients such as soybean and lavender essential oils, providing a hydrating and smoothing effect. Additionally, non-toxic removers are usually free from strong odours, making them more pleasant to use and safer for your respiratory health.
Some recommended non-toxic nail polish removers include the Kapa Nui Nail Polish Remover, which is a gel formula that nourishes your nails and is easy to use. It is free from acetone, alcohol, and parabens, and it is gentle on your nails and the environment. Another option is the Static Nails 100% Non-Toxic Polish & Pop-On Remover, which has zero scent and effectively removes various types of polish without drying out your nails.
By choosing non-toxic nail polishes and removers, you can avoid the damaging effects of harsh chemicals and promote the health and strength of your nails. These products offer a healthier and more sustainable approach to nail care, ensuring that your nails look and feel their best.
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Eat a nutrient-dense diet with biotin and protein
Eating a nutrient-dense diet that is rich in biotin and protein is essential for achieving healthy nails. Biotin, also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H, is a B-complex vitamin that promotes nail growth and strength. It aids in the metabolism of protein-building amino acids, which are essential for nail growth and overall nail health.
Foods rich in biotin include eggs, almonds, and avocados. Eggs, in particular, are a great source of not only biotin but also vitamin D, healthy fats, and sulfur, all of which contribute to nail health. Almonds and avocados are excellent plant-based sources of biotin and healthy fats, ensuring your nails grow shinier and stronger.
In addition to biotin, including adequate protein in your diet is crucial for nail health. Nails are made of a protein called keratin, so ensuring you consume enough protein helps your nails repair, grow, and maintain their strength. Meat, poultry, and fish are excellent sources of protein and collagen, which are beneficial for nail health. If you follow a plant-based diet, fear not! Quinoa, nuts, beans, legumes, tofu, and even some vegetables provide just as much protein as animal sources. For vegans, hemp seed protein is a great option, as it is rich in protein and iron, with added fiber content.
While diet plays a significant role in nail health, it is also important to stay hydrated. Drinking enough water is essential for keeping your nails and body functioning properly. So, remember to drink up and incorporate nutrient-rich foods into your diet to promote healthy and beautiful nails!
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Frequently asked questions
You can make your nails look good by keeping them clean and well-maintained. Trim your nails once a week, use a nail file to keep them flat and smooth, and apply cuticle oil to keep them hydrated.
Avoid using nail polish removers that contain acetone, as they can damage your nails. Instead, opt for nontoxic and acetone-free alternatives. You can also try natural methods such as using toothpaste or hydrogen peroxide.
A well-balanced diet rich in proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, and biotin can help improve nail health. Staying hydrated is also essential. Additionally, consider applying nail lotions and oils to keep your nails moisturized.
Yes, avoid cutting or pushing back your cuticles. The cuticle acts as a natural barrier against bacteria and fungi, so trimming them can lead to infections. Instead, use a cuticle pusher to gently nudge them, and only trim away any dead skin.
A French manicure is a great option for achieving well-defined nail tips. You can paint your nails in a rosy pink or nude shade and add a rounded white outline at the tip. For artificial nails, consider gel, shellac, or acrylic manicures, but be aware of the potential for nail damage and infections.
