Maintaining healthy nails is important, and there are some habits to avoid when it comes to nail care. Here are 5 things to keep in mind, especially during the festive season, to ensure your nails stay in top shape:
Don’t Cut the Skin Around Your Nails
The skin around your nails, known as the cuticle, serves as a protective barrier against bacteria. Cutting this skin is unnecessary and can cause damage, leaving you vulnerable to bacterial infections. Instead, use specialized products to gently soften and remove excess cuticle. Only use cuticle nippers carefully if the skin is torn or painful, avoiding any potential harm.

Use cuticle nippers carefully only when the skin is torn or painful to avoid any damage.
Avoid Sharing Nail Tools
One of the biggest risks when getting your nails done at an unreliable salon is sharing nail tools with other customers. Tools like cuticle nippers and nail clippers can harbor bacteria and fungi if not properly sanitized, leading to potential infections such as nail fungus, ringworm, hepatitis B, C, or herpes. To stay safe, bring your own set of tools or opt for reputable salons that maintain proper sanitization procedures.
Don’t Overuse UV Nail Dryers
While UV nail dryers are convenient for quick-drying nail polish, frequent use increases your risk of skin cancer due to UV ray exposure. Studies indicate that UV light from these dryers can cause DNA damage and cell mutations, similar to the effects of sunlight. If you only get your nails done occasionally, there’s no need to worry. However, if you’re a frequent nail salon visitor, apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher at least 20 minutes before using a UV dryer. LED nail lamps are a safer alternative.

LED nail lamps are a safer alternative to UV nail dryers.
Steer Clear of Low-Quality Nail Products
Using low-quality nail products can weaken and damage your nails. These products may contain harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalates, which can cause allergies and negatively impact your health. Opt for “5-Free” or “3-Free” nail polishes, free from these toxic chemicals. To prevent nail damage, be cautious when using artificial nails and remove them gently to avoid harm to your natural nails.
Don’t Get Your Nails Done if They’re Infected or Damaged
If your nails are infected, inflamed, or damaged, avoid getting a manicure or pedicure to prevent bacterial infections and worsening the condition. Continuing nail services with damaged nails can also spread infections to other customers if tools aren’t properly sanitized. Allow your nails to heal first, and if you notice any abnormalities like roughness, discoloration, or fungal infections, give your nails time to recover before your next appointment.
Choose reputable nail salons, avoid these harmful habits, and adopt a proper nail care routine to ensure your nails stay healthy, strong, and beautiful, especially during the festive season!