NAIL CARE MYTHS BUSTED

Don’t you sometimes wonder how some women seem to have the most gorgeous looking nails in the world? Take a moment off from whatever else it is that you’re doing right now; and take a good long look at your nails. Do they look happy or sad? If you answer the latter, it’s of utmost importance that you read on. Maybe some of your nail care routines are not really as beneficial as you may believe them to be.

Myth # 1

Using polishes with hardeners in them can make my nails stronger.

Busting the myth

These polishes will lead to nail stiffness, which will lead to your nails being brittle under trauma. The best way to go about growing stronger nails would be to keep them moisturized all the time. Nails are exposed to harsher realities than they can deal with – detergents and chemicals to name a few.

Most of the moisturizers available in the market have a certain amount of petroleum and mineral oil in them, which helps protect the nails from the abuse that they endure due to alcohol based nail polishes.

Myth # 2

My nail salon looks clean. I have nothing to worry about.

Busting the myth

Check for whether the nail technician washes her hands between clients or not. If you get manicures and pedicures done frequently, it would be best to invest in some equipment of your own. You could have your technician use the tools you’ve carried. This will reduce the risk of you catching an infection.

It is important to check the foot baths. They must be thoroughly disinfected after every use; or they might turn into breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.

Myth # 3

If and when I get a nail infection, topical products should do the trick.

Busting the myth

Over-the-counter medications will provide for only a superficial return of luster and health. It would be advisable to make a trip to your dermatologist to find an effective solution to the problem. Oral medications are generally prescribed, which help ease the problem.

Nail fungus is known to be the happiest in damp and warm environments. Refrain from sharing your towel with others in public shower areas. It puts you at a greater risk of being infected.

Myth # 4

Pushing the cuticle behind will ensure that the nail remains healthy and grows well.

Busting the myth

Dermatologists disagree with the above statement. They say that it can lead to a lot of problems like bacterial infection. The cuticle is a barrier which helps protect the skin. If you try to push back the skin, it can result in injury to the skin and it may end up exposing the paronychium (skin fold around the nail); putting it at a greater risk of infection.

Keep these facts in mind before you pick up a nail polish at the store, or before you forget to use gloves while doing the dishes. A little bit of nail care will go a long way and reflect on your nails!

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