Basic Nail Care Tips

It’s easy to neglect your nails, but with basic nail care, you can help keep your fingernails and toenails looking and feeling great. Here’s how:

• Keep nails clean and dry to prevent bacteria from building up under the nail.
• Cut fingernails and toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails and trauma.
• Avoid tight-fitting footwear.
• Apply an anti-fungal foot powder daily or when needed.
• Avoid biting and picking fingernails, as infectious organisms can be transferred between the fingers and mouth.
• Wear gloves to protect your fingernails when doing yard work or cleaning house to protect the nails from harsh chemicals and trauma.

When in doubt about self-treatment for nail problems, visit your dermatologist for proper diagnosis and care.

Always notify a dermatologist of nail irregularities, such as swelling, pain or change in shape or color of the nail. Remember, your nails can tell you a lot about your overall health, and a dermatologist can help determine the appropriate treatment for any of your nail problems. Source