Nails to You, by Samantha, mobile Nail Technician: Nail bites

Our nails need to be cared for in the same way we care for the rest of our body. The nail itself is actually dead tissue, but it still benefits from a little help. Handcream is a must for our hands, especially with the hand washing and sanitizer we are using so much now, and will also help the nails to an extent. Take the time to gently massage it into your hands, and each finger. Pay particular attention to the palms, which can easily become dry, and also the tip of the fingers.

File your nails regularly, to get rid of rough edges. We would all like long talons! BUT - Don’t allow them to grow too long. A shorter healthy set of nails is much more attractive than a mix of long and short. Just enough white at the tip so that you have a clear free edge (the bit that hangs clear of the skin). And longer nails are more prone to breakage!

Cuticle oil needs to be used twice daily - apply to the cuticle, and gently massage it into the skin around the nail.

If you are applying nail polish yourself, be sure to use a base coat - this will protect the nail from staining. Some base coats contain vitamins and other goodies to nourish the nail. And a top coat will give the best protection against chipping. You need to allow time for each coat to dry properly.

You may notice some characteristics on the surface of the nail:

The half moon - this is normal and varies from person o person.
White spots - nothing to be concerned about, they will grow out. Caused by a trauma to the nail bed.
Vertical ridges on one or more nails - this is normal, and tend to increase as we get older. The nail can also become more brittle with age. Most nail techs Will buff the surface of the nail to give a perfectly smooth surface - I prefer not o do this, as it makes the nail thinner and weaker: I do not feel that this is a necessary step.
Horizontal ridges - could be caused by a trauma to the nail. If it doesn’t improve seek medical advice.
A ‘greeny’ - green or nasty coloured infection, this needs medical attention. Can be caused by poor hygiene, infection from acrylic nails not applied correctly.
A single dark vertical line in the nail - seek medical attention.

But remember that everyone has different nails, and what is normal for you might not be for someone else. If you are unsure, seek advice. All nail techs have received training in nail conditions, so please ask us. If we feel you need to seek further medical advice we will tell you.