Nail Care

Scratch an itch. Strum a guitar. Peel an orange. Your fingernails come in handy all day long, but too much use -- or misuse -- can cause problems ranging from nasty fungal infections to brittle, broken nails. Because many nail disorders result from poor nail care, developing good nail habits today will help keep them healthy. The nail is made of a hard protein called keratin. A protein is one of the building blocks which make up the body. The nail care, help protect the ends of the fingers and toes from trauma and also help us pick up small objects.

Although plenty can go wrong with the nails, one of the most common complaints dermatologists hear is that fingernails are brittle, or easily broken. Fingernails can become brittle either because they are too dry, making them hard and easily cracked, or because they are too moist, which leaves them soft and prone to tearing.

For your nails to be healthy your diet should include a lot of fruits and raw vegetables so that they get the required vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Eating food that is rich in silicon like broccoli, fish and onions help in nail care. For nail care eat foods rich in biotins like whole grains. Drink plenty of water and other fruit juices for better nails. Food rich in zinc and vitamin B will strengthen your nails. Fresh carrot juice rich in calcium and phosphorous is perfect for strengthening nails.

Basic Nail Care

• Wash hands with mild soap, using a nailbrush for nail care.
• Soak the hands in warm water for a few minutes to soften the cuticles (the bits of skin at the bottom of the nails).
• Very gently push back the cuticles if they are long and ragged.
• Trim the nails to the same length.
• File the ends of the nails to smooth them off.
• If your hands are dry, apply some hand cream for nail care.