With hand washing and sanitizing at an all time high in light of Covid-19 mitigation efforts, many are experiencing dry hands and brittle nails as a result. Paired with fewer trips to the salon for manicures, many are in search of a way to improve the health and appearance of their nails and hands. Surprisingly, your nails may be suffering because of what you are doing instead of what you aren’t. Explore these 5 mistakes you’re making with your nails:

1. Swaying Back and Forth With A Nail File
   

Filing your nails is a staple of any good nail care routine. It can ensure that they are all the same length and shape while also reducing breakage and peeling. Unfortunately, if you use the file in a swaying, back and forth motion; however, you may be doing more harm than good. This is because the back and forth motion can cause nails to fray and eventually split. Instead, swipe the file in one direction and be sure not to overdo it.

2. Choosing the Wrong Nail Hardener

Nail hardeners can be immensely helpful for those who have nails that are prone to peeling or breaking, but the aren’t all made equally. Many advertise ingredients like formaldehyde or calcium which can be toxic or cause the nails to become overly hard and thus more likely to break. To make the most of your nail hardener, look for one that contains nylon (or sulfhydryl protein).

3. Using Cuticle Clippers

Cuticle clippers can be tempting as part of your DIY or in-salon manicure in Davie, Florida, but they are risky. With a high risk of infection, experts recommend skipping the clippers and instead gently pushing the cuticles back. 

4. Relying on Biotin Supplements for Nail Health

Biotin, or B7, supplements can help immensely when it comes to growing out your nails and hair. While taking them isn’t a mistake, solely relying on the supplements for nail health is. This is because a number of other deficiencies, like iron, protein or calcium, can cause the nails to become misshapen, soft or bent. For optimal nail health, a well-balanced diet is key.

5. Applying Too Much Nail Polish

Nail polish is often the finishing touch when it comes to any manicure or pedicure, but coating your nails in polish doesn’t allow the nail to breathe. In turn, this can cause your nails to turn yellow. While all nail polish hues can create this affect, staining is most likely with colors like red, purple, black and blue. Be sure to use a basecoat and gently buff out any stains that the polish may leave behind. Likewise, embrace your natural nails from time to time to allow the nail to receive oxygen. 

In desperate need of a manicure in Davie, Florida after realizing you're guilty of some (or all) of these biggest nail mistakes? Book an appointment online now at Inscape BeautySalon.