7 Steps to Healthier Cuticles

What Should You Be Looking At? 

The cuticle sits atop your nail. It's actually an extension of your skin and it protects your nails by acting as a barrier for bacteria. You can tell if your cuticles are dry if they’re flaking, cracked, or peeling. If you notice this then take action fast as cracked and peeling cuticles may allow bacteria to enter your nails and cause an infection. 

What Causes Dry Cuticles? 

Dry cuticles can come from multiple factors. During the winter, cold weather coupled with dry indoor heat, as well as several possible internal factors can contribute to your less-than-stellar nail beds. We recommend taking a moment and identifying possible cuticle culprits that are simple fixes. Look at the cleaning products you use on a regular basis because they can intensify dryness. Do you spend time working outside? Also, how hydrated are you on a daily basis? All these small factors can contribute to dry cuticles.  

How To Treat Dry Cuticles. 

1. Use a good hand and nail moisturizing cream daily. Keep a hand cream or lotion on hand so that after you wash your hands on the go you can moisturize.

2. Hydrate, hydrate, and then hydrate some more. Water intake is vital for healthy skin, so carry a bottle with you at all times. If indoor heating is drying out your skin, it may be worth investing in a humidifier too. 

3. Keep your cuticles pushed back. This can help prevent skin tearing and pulling behind the cuticle line. Take a reusable cuticle stick and push back the cuticle on each nail. Once you’ve done this, wipe away the loosened cuticle. We don’t recommend picking at your cuticles, so only carefully trim any excess skin if you really have to.  

4. Wear gloves. When it comes to washing dishes or submerging your hands in water, reach for a pair of rubber gloves beforehand. Water and detergent can dry out your hands, and cause your cuticles further problems. 

5. Go chemical-free. Harsh soaps, hand sanitizers, and nail polish removers can dry out your cuticles. Try to swap your products for cleansing oils when washing your hands and avoid alcohol-based sanitizers. 

6. Get the prep work in now. If you’re already showing signs of dry winter skin, treat yourself before it’s too late. You can exfoliate in the shower to buff away any dry unwanted skin then moisturize when you exit the shower.

7. Up your vitamins. Cracked cuticles may be a sign of Zinc or Vitamin E deficiency. Reverse this problem by eating more foods rich in essential omega 3’s like spinach, salmon, and other seafood. If your nails are brittle, explore biotin supplements. Source

Why Cutting Your Toenails is Important for Good Health

Toenail cutting is important for maintaining good foot health and preventing various issues. Here are some reasons why toenail cutting is important:

• Preventing ingrown nails:   Trimming toenails properly helps prevent ingrown nails, which occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. Ingrown nails can be painful, lead to infections, and increase the risk of other foot problems.
• Reducing the risk of nail-related infections:  When toenails are too long, they can create an environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive. Trimming nails short and keeping them clean reduces the risk of nail infections, such as fungal infections (onychomycosis) and bacterial infections.
• Avoiding discomfort and pain:  Overgrown toenails can cause discomfort and pain. They may press against the inside of shoes, leading to pressure sores, blisters, or corns. Proper nail trimming ensures that the nails remain at a comfortable length, reducing discomfort and pain.
• Promoting proper foot mechanics:  If toenails are excessively long, they can interfere with the normal mechanics of the foot. This can lead to changes in gait, pressure distribution, and overall foot function. Trimming toenails allows the toes and feet to move and function optimally.
• Maintaining foot hygiene:   Trimming toenails is part of good foot hygiene. It helps to keep the feet clean and prevents the accumulation of dirt, debris, or sweat under the nails. Proper foot hygiene is essential for preventing foot odor, fungal infections, and other foot-related issues.

When trimming toenails, it is important to follow some guidelines for proper nail care:

• Use clean, sterilized nail clippers or scissors specifically designed for toenails.
• Trim the nails straight across, avoiding curved or rounded edges. This helps prevent ingrown nails.
• Do not cut the nails too short, as it can increase the risk of ingrown nails and injury.
• Smooth the edges of the nails with a nail file to prevent sharp edges.
• Trim nails regularly to maintain an appropriate length, typically every 2-3 weeks.

Source

Spring into Self-Care

Spring has sprung, which means shedding your winter layers, and hopefully, enjoying warmer temperatures. It is also an opportunity to pay more attention to your own well-being. With these top tips for self-care, you will feel energized, rejuvenated, and ready to start summer anew. There are many approaches to self-care. On the surface, it can refer to taking care of your skin, appearance, or your fitness. Spa days, shopping trips, and indulging in comfort foods are usually what come to mind. But on a deeper level, it can mean changing your outlook to make every day feel more comfortable. However you define it, it is worthwhile to make time for self-care and find what works best for you.

Here are a few ways to utilize self care for the spring time...

Care for your skin;

If the winter chill has left your skin dry and cracked, make this the time to nourish your body’s largest organ. For lasting relief, try a moisturizer with ceramides, lipids found naturally in the skin.

Get moving outside if possible;

Cabin fever can run rampant this time of year. If the weather cooperates, immerse yourself in nature by going on a hike through the budding forest. Make an effort to take in the natural smells, sounds, and sights of the outdoors. Studies show that spending time in nature can provide a big mental health boost. If the weather is too wet, try indoor yoga or stretching.

Indulge yourself;

Treat yourself to a simple pleasure. Taking a hot Epsom salt bath, getting a massage, eating a healthy snack, or even putting on a favorite movie can put your mind at ease.

Meditate​​​​​;

Being present and mindful can boost your mental wellness. To get started, sit comfortably and breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth five times. Try to clear your mind and focus on breathing from your belly instead of your upper diaphragm. Throughout your self-care journey, you may find your mind wandering back towards everyday stressors or upcoming tasks. Take a moment to re-center your thoughts should they get away from you. Focus on your current well-being.

Embrace doing nothing;

After you start to feel more relaxed, make time to do something valuable: nothing. Allow yourself the opportunity to be bored. Make your next task one of rediscovery. Revisit a former hobby or catch up with old friends or family members. Self-care can also be about creating a daily life that you do not have to “escape” from. Investing time in yourself can make each day feel like a special occasion. Give these ideas a try:

• Declutter: Sort through old clothes, documents, and other items you can live without and donate them. To make this a more dramatic, lasting change, purge your home of unnecessary items in a single weekend. A large, sudden change can have lasting effects and will leave you feeling brand new.
• Learn a new skill: Try a few new recipes, consider learning a new language, or sample some different hobbies. Give yourself time to stick to your new experiences. After all, many agree that it takes at least 21 days to form a new habit.
• Volunteer: Those who regularly spend time helping others are often happier themselves. Find a local cause that matters to you and commit to it.
• Tune up your finances: Use spring as a time to revisit your family’s budget. Keeping track of your spending habits or planning a financial comeback now can help you put your mind at ease when you lack the time or mental energy later.
• Re-plan your typical day: If a typical day is too hectic as it is, consider cutting out certain tasks. Although it may seem harsh, saying “no” more often can help free up time and cut stress from your life.
• Hack your schedule: To make work days less stressful, try “meal prepping.” Cooking and freezing meals in advance is an easy way to stay healthy when a long day has drained your energy to cook.

Give yourself time to take care of yourself this spring. To maximize results, consider taking a day or two off work to spend time on yourself. Your body and mind will thank you for it once you return to the ups and downs of everyday life. Source