How to take care of your nails on a budget

How to take care of your nails on a budget (Photo: iStock)

Taking care of your nails is an important part of self-care, although it is often ignored. Well-maintained healthy nails may boost your confidence and make you feel good about yourself. It can also help prevent infections and other health problems

• Keep your nails clean

Fingernails may harbour dirt and germs and can contribute to the spread of some infections. You should clean their nails using a soft-bristled brush and mild soap and dry them thoroughly to prevent the growth of bacteria.

• Don't cut your cuticles

The cuticle seals the area at the base of the nail. So cutting or removing the cuticle can break that seal of protection, leaving you vulnerable to bacteria and the possibility of infection which may because you pain. Cuticles also helps minimize hangnails.

• Trim and cut your nails regularly

Well-trimmed nails are less likely to harbour dirt and bacteria which can lead to an infection. However, they shouldn't be cut too short to avoid making them weak and prone to breakage.

• Apply a base coat before applying nail polish

A base coat shields the nails from being stained by nail polish and helps the colour look more saturated with just one coat. A basecoat can also be applied without applying coloured nail polish leaving a shiny hard coating on the nails. It also strengthens the tips and can protect against damage.

• Use a top coat

Top coats prevent the nails from chipping. It also seals in the nail polish's colour and adds a gloss finish to your nails. The top coat helps you get the most out of your manicure.

• Eat foods rich in protein

Nails are made of a protein called keratin. Foods rich in protein like beans, fish, and nuts promote healthy cell growth and aid in the metabolism of protein-building amino acids that are essential for nail growth. Supplements and biotin-rich foods like eggs, milk and bananas also help in strengthening weak and brittle fingernails.

• Give your nails a break once in a while

Continuously applying coloured nail polish can dry out your nails and cause them to become weak over time. Going natural for a while may be what your nails need to rehydrate and allow repair of the underlying structure before getting them done again.

• Moisturise your nails and cuticles

Applying cuticle oil can increase circulation around your nails, stimulating nail growth. It can also help to protect your nail and cuticle against damage.

The oil can also help improve the health and appearance of your nail. If you paint your nails, cuticle oil can also protect your polish for a lasting shine. Moisturizing your cuticles also prevents dry skin and hangnails.